The Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are an American professional baseball team based in Anaheim, California. The Angels compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the American League (AL) West division. The team is owned by Arte Moreno, and is currently managed by Joe Maddon. As of the end of the 2020 season, the Angels have one of the longest-tenured announcers in baseball: Angels baseball announcer Victor Rojas. Since 2002, Rojas has been the voice of the Angels, providing color commentary and play-by-play for the team’s radio and television broadcasts.
Victor Rojas’ Early Career
Victor Rojas was born in Miami, Florida, and grew up in the Los Angeles area. He attended UCLA, where he received a degree in English. After college, Rojas began his career in broadcasting with the Miami Marlins in 1997. He worked as a pre-game and post-game radio host for the Marlins until 2002, when he was hired by the Angels to be their radio and television play-by-play announcer.
Rojas’ Time With the Angels
From 2002 to 2021, Victor Rojas’ tenure with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim was one of the most successful periods in the team’s history. During his time as their announcer, the Angels won five American League West Division titles and one World Series championship in 2002. Rojas was an integral part of the Angels’ success, providing the team with a unique and passionate voice that resonated with the fans.
Rojas’ Departure From the Angels
In 2021, after 19 years with the Angels, Victor Rojas announced that he was stepping down as the team’s play-by-play announcer. While it was initially reported that Rojas was leaving to pursue other opportunities, it was later revealed that he was leaving due to differences with the Angels’ front office.
What Led to Rojas’ Departure?
There are several factors that may have contributed to Victor Rojas’ decision to leave the Angels. One factor is the team’s decision to hire a new general manager and manager in 2021. This was a major change for the organization and some believe it led to Rojas feeling like he was being pushed out.
Rojas’ Impact on the Angels
During his time with the Angels, Victor Rojas provided the team with a unique and passionate voice that resonated with the fans. He was known for his enthusiasm, knowledge, and energy, which helped make the Angels’ broadcasts more enjoyable. Rojas was also an integral part of the Angels’ success, providing insight and analysis that helped the team achieve its five American League West Division titles and one World Series championship.
Reactions to Rojas’ Departure
The reactions to Victor Rojas’ departure from the Angels have been overwhelmingly positive. Fans have expressed their gratitude for Rojas’ years of service to the team and their sadness at his departure. Members of the Angels organization have also expressed their appreciation for Rojas and his impact on the franchise.
Rojas’ Future Plans
While Rojas has yet to reveal what his next move will be, it has been reported that he is open to the possibility of returning to the Angels in some capacity. He has also expressed an interest in pursuing other broadcasting opportunities, such as commentating on college sports or working in radio.
Conclusion
Victor Rojas was an integral part of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim for 19 years. During his tenure, he provided the team with a unique, passionate voice that resonated with the fans. Rojas’ departure from the Angels has been met with sadness from fans and appreciation from the team, and although he is leaving the Angels, he is open to the possibility of returning in some capacity or pursuing other broadcasting opportunities.
Key Points
- Victor Rojas was the Angels’ announcer from 2002 to 2021.
- Rojas left the Angels due to differences with the front office.
- Rojas provided the team with a unique, passionate voice.
- Rojas’ departure has been met with sadness from fans and appreciation from the team.
- Rojas is open to the possibility of returning to the Angels in some capacity or pursuing other broadcasting opportunities.