The California Angels nearly reached the World Series in the 1986 post season. After clinching first place in the American League West division, the Angels faced the Boston Red Sox in the ALCS. The Angels were one win away from defeating Boston and going to the World Series for the first time in their franchise history. Donnie Moore came to relief pitch in the 9th inning and gave up a home run to Dave Henderson that tied the game. Boston would later win the game in extra innings and win the remaining games in the series to play in the 1986 World Series.

Unfancied by pundits before the 2002 season the team exceeded expectations, winning 99 games and edging out the Seattle Mariners for the American League Wildcard. They defeated the New York Yankees 3-1 in the ALDS and Minnesota Twins 4-1 in the ALCS to advance to the World Series for the first time in franchise history. In the World Series they defeated the San Francisco Giants in seven games, after losing three of the first five. Third baseman Troy Glaus was named the MVP of the Series. 20 year old rookie relief pitcher Francisco Rodriguez won five postseason games, never having won a major league game before.

On May 15, 2003, the Angels became the first major sports team to be owned by a Hispanic, when the sale of the team to Arturo Moreno was approved.

--Wikipedia