2012 Season Starts Now for Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim were widely considered to be one of most successful baseball teams in the first decade of the 21st century. World Series champions in 2002, and winner of the American League Western Division in 2007, 2008, and 2009, the Angels have drawn more than three million fans to their regular season games for the past nine years.
Though the Angels won less than 90 games and missed the playoffs last year, many expect this season to be the one where they once again take it all the way to the 2012 World Series – thanks in part to three-time National League MVP Albert Pujols and left-handed pitcher C.J. Wilson, both of whom Angels owner Arte Moreno signed in 2011. Other new additions to the team include LaTroy Hawkins and Chris Iannetta.
The team’s newly released lineup features Erick Aybar at shortstop, Howie Kendrick on second base, Albert Pujols on first, Toril Hunter in right field, Vernon Wells in left field, Alberto Callaspo on third, Chris Iannetta as catcher, Peter Bourjos in center field, and Hank Conger as designated hitter. But, with the amount of talent the Angels have this season, it’s likely that the lineup will change at least a little throughout the regular season.
All told, since last year, the Angels have added one of the best players in the game (some would argue the best player), as well as the best free-starting pitcher in the game, a solid reliever, and a great catcher. The Angels also have a “secret weapon” that’s really no secret at all: Angels manager Mike Scioscia. Winner of two Manager of the Year awards, Scioscia has led the Angels to a World Series win once before and into the postseason six times. Under Scioscia’s management and with a seriously talented roster, the 2012 Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim season is sure to be an exciting one!
Opening Day matchup is April 6, against the Kansas City Royals. Spring Training tickets and regular season tickets are on sale now. Visit http://losangeles.angels.mlb.com/ticketing/index.jsp?c_id=ana to get yours.
