Arte Moreno won big. Now, what to do with his victory.
As good as Moreno has been for fans,that is, those who don’t care much about the Anaheim name,he’s been a pain for his host city.
The billboard billionaire has treated Anaheim dismissively, keeping city officials in the dark about his name change plans. He seems to view Anaheim as a backwater in a bigger media market.
Moreno could reach out to the city in bid to be magnanimous in the face of a clear win. Or it could be more of the same.
After last week’s jury verdict, Moreno was his usual subdued self. Asked about Mayor Curt Pringle’s comments about looking forward to working with the owner, Moreno said “no comment.”
An Angels spokesman said the court win means “business as usual.”
What could Moreno do? First he might hire a good public relations agency. Minimally, he could offer Anaheim some kind of exposure beyond what he’s been doing.
Or he could blow everyone away by agreeing to return the name to Anaheim Angels. Or Anaheim Angels of Los Angeles.
Things could go from bad to worse. Moreno feels betrayed by the city after spending millions on players and stadium upgrades. Forgot the symbolism of the name. That doesn’t resonate with Moreno.
His next move could be to demand compensation for his legal fees.
A worsening of relations could put a cloud over the team, no matter how well the Angels do on the field.
The likely outcome in that case: a move of the team when the lease is up, or even before if Moreno gets a stadium deal elsewhere to his liking.
Anaheim is the other variable. The city this week is set to look at its options and whether to pursue an appeal. The city couldn’t do worse with an appellate judge versed in contract law.
Pringle, who was gracious in defeat last week, could opt against further aggravating relations. Maybe Anaheim gives up an appeal in exchange for Moreno not pressing for legal fees.
At the end of the trial last week, Pringle approached Moreno to shake hands, according to press accounts. At least Moreno took his hand.
Maybe that’s a start.
,Rick Reiff, Michael Lyster
