The Angels will celebrate their 50th Anniversary throughout this year, truly making2011 "More Than A Season". From a modest beginning, the Angels have grown into aperennial contender that boasts eight Western Division Titles and one World SeriesTrophy. Now, at 50 years, it is ftting to remember the many moments that havecombined to make the Halos’ frst hal century truly memorable.The Angels joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team in 1961 withentertainer Gene Autry as their owner. The team’s competitive history began with a 7-2win against the Baltimore Orioles on April 11, 1961. Ted Kluszewski, a veteran slugger,clubbed two home runs to lead the way. Over the next 50 seasons, the Angels won 8American League Western Division Championships, hosted the MLB All-Star Game threetimes, and captured the World Series Championship in 2002.In the ’60s, a squad managed by Bill Rigney posted the best record in expansion teamhistory (70-91) and showcased the skills o several young players like Jim Fregosi andBuck Rodgers. Pitchers Nolan Ryan and Frank Tanana made headlines or the Halosthroughout the ’70s, a decade capped o by the ranchise’s frst division championshipin 1979. In the 1980s, the Angels won two more division championships. Fans alsowitnessed Reggie Jackson’s 500th home run in 1984 and Rod Carew’s 3,000th hit in1985. A stadium renovation in the ’90s laid the groundwork or an Angels renaissancethat lead to the ultimate triumph o 2002, when a team led by Angel greats Tim Salmonand Darin Erstad captured the World Series trophy in a thrilling seven-game showdown.In 2010, the Angels hosted their third MLB All-Star game and were represented by ToriiHunter and Jered Weaver.
Through 50 years, the Angel ranchise has:
• Eght dvson ttles and a World Seres Champonshp• Hosted three All-Star Games• Two MVP’s and two Cy Young Wnners• A Rooke of the Year and a Battng Champon• 33 Rawlngs Gold Glove Wnners• 16 Lousvlle Slver Slugger Recpents• 130 All-Stars• 8 No-Htters and a Perfect Game