Peter Angelos: A Baltimore Legacy
Peter Angelos, the long-time owner of the Baltimore Orioles, passed away on Saturday at the age of 94. Angelos was a key figure in the Baltimore community, known for his philanthropic efforts and his dedication to the city's baseball team.
Born in Baltimore in 1929, Angelos grew up with a passion for baseball. He attended the University of Baltimore, where he received his law degree in 1961. After graduating, Angelos established his own law firm, which specialized in personal injury cases.
In 1993, Angelos led a group of investors that purchased the Orioles for $173 million. At the time, it was the highest price ever paid for a sports franchise. Angelos' ownership of the team marked a new era for the Orioles, as he was committed to investing in the team and bringing success to Baltimore.
A Hands-On Owner with a Winning Mindset
Angelos was known for his hands-on approach to running the Orioles. He was actively involved in player acquisition and team strategy, and he was not afraid to spend money to improve the team. Under Angelos' leadership, the Orioles made six postseason appearances, including a trip to the American League Championship Series in 1997.
Angelos was also known for his philanthropic efforts. He donated millions of dollars to various charities and organizations in Baltimore, including the University of Maryland Medical System and the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. He was also a strong supporter of education, and he established the Peter G. Angelos Scholarship Fund to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds attend college.
Orioles Ownership Transition and Legacy
In recent years, Angelos' health declined, and he gradually transferred control of the Orioles to his sons, John and Louis. In 2019, John Angelos became the team's chairman and CEO. Earlier this year, the Angelos family agreed to sell the Orioles to a group led by Baltimore native David Rubenstein for $1.725 billion. The sale is still pending approval from Major League Baseball.
Peter Angelos' legacy will be felt in Baltimore for years to come. He was a passionate baseball fan, a successful businessman, and a generous philanthropist. His contributions to the city of Baltimore, both on and off the field, will not be forgotten.
