Angels converting press box to luxury seating area, will move sportswriters

The Angels are in the process of converting their press box to a luxury seating area that will feature upgraded dining opportunities and amenities for about 80 fans, a move that will push writers covering the team to a new press box down the right-field line in Angel Stadium.

There will be no changes to the radio and television broadcast booths, which will remain on the club level behind home plate, or in the Diamond Club restaurant and seating areas on the lower level behind home plate.

“It really boils down to building revenue streams and finding as many ways as possible to grow,” said Tim Mead, Angels vice president of communications. “In talking to other teams, the seating behind home plate is a prime area to do things.”

A similar move several years ago by the Chicago White Sox, who pushed writers far down the right-field line and up a level, was met with resistance by the media there, but the configuration has remained despite some objection from Commissioner Bud Selig.

Asked if the Angels had received permission from Major League Baseball to make the switch, Mead said, “This is not something we have to seek approval for.” Mead did talk to White Sox officials before deciding on the move.

“I know how things went there,” Mead said. “There were new sight lines, but people adjusted after a while. We’re going to try to make it as comfortable as possible for everyone.”

ALSO:

Angels paint the town red with Josh Hamilton

Baseball off-season can be tough on fans who see favorite players jump ship

Angels add more power with Josh Hamilton