The Angels are set to remain in Tempe, Ariz., for Spring Training through at least the 2035 season, the club and the city government both announced on Friday. The deal also includes $50.9 million worth of renovations to the facility.
Tempe Diablo Stadium, which was built in 1968 and is owned by the city, is the oldest stadium in the Cactus League. The Angels have made it their Spring Training home since 1993 and it marks the first major renovations to the complex since 2006. The city council officially approved the memorandum of understanding that provides the framework for the new lease on Thursday.
“We would like to thank Tempe Mayor Corey Woods, the city council and city staff for their leadership throughout this process,” said Angels owner Arte Moreno in a statement. “For nearly 30 years Tempe Diablo Stadium has served as the backdrop of Spring Training memories for our fans while also playing a vital role in the preparation of our teams. The Angels organization is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with the City of Tempe, and we look forward to modernizing one of the most picturesque ballparks in the Cactus League.”
The first phase of the renovation, which could be ready for Spring Training next year, includes a three-story building on the third-base side that will host a new home clubhouse, suites, Angels offices and a team store. It's projected to cost $20.9 million, with the Angels contributing $10 million and the city covering the remaining $10.9 million.
The second phase includes a 360-degree outfield concourse, which is set to cost $30 million and will be paid for by future voter-approved bonds. It also includes new shade structures, new restrooms and improves traffic flow. The second phase is planned for 2024.
Angels manager Joe Maddon was pleased to hear about the upgrades and believes it could be a competitive advantage for the club going forward.
"It's awesome," Maddon said. "It's a players' game. You want your players to feel like they are Major Leaguers, and it can help you recruit and attract. Its infrastructure, whether it's a family room, updated workout facilities or the locker room itself. Everything it takes for a player to perform at a higher level is important."
As part of the lease agreement, the Angels will pay $500,000 a year in rent, with the rent increased by 1.8% each year beginning in 2023. The club also keeps all concession revenue, 80 percent of ticket revenue and 65 percent of advertising revenue. The club also will donate $150,000 a year to a local charity, the current benefactor being the Tempe Diablos Charities. The Angels also have the option to later extend their agreement through 2040 or 2045.
“Fans know that spring training in Tempe is a one-of-a-kind experience, with a fantastic team, a welcoming atmosphere, amazing views and our central location,” Woods said in a statement. “Partnering with the Angels and with our community, we are going to invest wisely in Diablo Stadium and make that experience even better in the years to come.”