Angels Could Have More Than $50 Million to Spend This Winter

The Los Angeles Angels could have about $50.4 million in room to add players this winter if they aim to match their average adjusted payroll from 2025 and 2026. The estimate comes as the club prepares for a less lucrative local television deal and a possible attendance rebound under new ownership.

The team’s adjusted payroll was about $206.4 million in 2025 and $182.5 million in 2026, averaging roughly $194.5 million. Initial projections put 2027 commitments at about $149.1 million, including guaranteed contracts and estimated arbitration salaries for players such as Zach Neto and Reid Detmers.

The estimate falls to about $144 million if the Angels non-tender outfielder Josh Lowe and catcher Tyler Heineman. Their projected arbitration salaries are $3.6 million and $1.5 million, respectively. The team would need to make those decisions before the late-November deadline.

The payroll outlook also reflects competing revenue pressures. The new broadcast arrangement is described as less lucrative than the previous deal, while attendance fell sharply in 2026. A return of fans to Angel Stadium, alongside stronger ticket and sponsorship revenue, is expected to help offset the television shortfall.

Matching the recent payroll average would leave the Angels with about $50.4 million to add in annual contract value. The 2027 competitive balance tax threshold is projected at $247 million, though exceeding it is considered unlikely. The proposed approach is to spread spending across several players rather than commit to one major contract, targeting needs that include the rotation, second and third base, and the bullpen.