Angels Owner Arte Moreno Faces Backlash After Comments on Fan Priorities
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Los Angeles Angels owner Arte Moreno ignited a wave of criticism from the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) after publicly stating that winning is not among the top priorities for fans attending games. Speaking to reporters on February 23, Moreno emphasized that affordability, safety, and overall experience outrank winning in the eyes of Angels supporters.
“The number one thing fans want is affordability,” Moreno said, referencing data the Angels organization gathered. “They want safety, and they want a good experience when they come to the ballpark. Believe it or not, winning is not in their top five.”
The remarks, reported by Fox News, have drawn sharp rebuke from the MLBPA, which represents the players who compete on the field. Bruce Meyer, the newly appointed head of the MLBPA, expressed disappointment with Moreno’s comments, underscoring the importance of winning to players and fans alike.
“Winning is at the core of professional sports,” Meyer said in a statement. “While affordability and safety are critical to the fan experience, the competitive spirit and pursuit of victory are what drive players and inspire fans.”
Moreno’s remarks come amid ongoing challenges for Major League Baseball in attracting and retaining fans in a shifting sports entertainment landscape. Attendance and viewership have fluctuated in recent years, prompting teams and the league to explore new strategies to engage audiences.
The Angels owner highlighted affordability as a key factor for fans, a sentiment echoed by studies from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showing rising costs impacting discretionary spending. Moreno’s comments suggest a focus on making games more accessible financially, alongside ensuring safety and an enjoyable atmosphere at stadiums.
However, the tension between prioritizing fan experience and competitive success is a delicate balance. The Major League Baseball organization has invested in initiatives to enhance both aspects, including ballpark renovations and player development programs.
Critics argue that downplaying the importance of winning risks alienating the core fan base that supports the sport passionately. According to a recent survey by the Sports Business Journal, competitive success remains a top motivator for attendance and merchandise sales.
As the Angels prepare for the upcoming season, Moreno’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about what truly drives fan loyalty in professional sports. While affordability and safety are undeniably important, the enduring appeal of victory and the thrill of competition remain central to baseball’s cultural fabric.
The MLBPA and team ownership will likely continue to navigate these complex dynamics as they work toward growing the game and satisfying a diverse fan base.
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