Angels opt out of stadium lease in Anaheim

The Los Angeles Angels announced Tuesday that the team will opt out of its lease of Angel Stadium in Anaheim, according to Bill Shaikin of the Los Angeles Times.

By opting out, the team can negotiate a new lease at their longtime home or pursue a new stadium in a different city.

"As we look to the future, we need the ability to continue to deliver a high-quality fan experience beyond what the original lease allows," Angels president John Carpino said in a statement. "It is important that we look at all our options and how we can best serve our fans now and in the future."

If they do pull up stakes, the Angels are reportedly not seeking to leave Southern California, and are looking to build a new stadium in either Orange County or Los Angeles County, according to Arash Markazi of ESPN.

Angel Stadium has been open since 1966, making it the fourth-oldest ballpark currently being used in Major League Baseball.

There was a tight window to choose to opt out of the current lease. If the decision wasn't made Tuesday, the team would have been locked in until 2028.

"It’s today, or 10 years from now," Angels spokesperson Marie Garvey said. "There’s no option in between."

With a mayoral election slated for November, the Angels plan to meet with the new mayor and council to discuss the team's future in Anaheim.