BREAKING:Los Angeles Angels to Erect Statue at Angels Stadium Of Anaheim Stadium Honoring Chuck Finley for His Legacy and Impact on Franchise Greatness…(ESPN Report)
BREAKING: Los Angeles Angels to Erect Statue at Angel Stadium Honoring Chuck Finley for His Legacy and Impact on Franchise Greatness (ESPN Report)
Anaheim, CA — In a move that has long been awaited by fans and baseball historians alike, the Los Angeles Angels have announced they will erect a statue honoring legendary pitcher Chuck Finley at Angel Stadium of Anaheim, commemorating his enduring legacy and contributions to the franchise.
The news, first reported by ESPN and confirmed by the team Thursday morning, marks a significant milestone in the Angels’ history. The statue, which will be unveiled during a pre-game ceremony next season, will stand just outside the main entrance to the stadium—alongside other tributes to the club’s greats—and will depict Finley in his classic windup motion, symbolizing his dominance and consistency throughout the 1990s.
“Chuck Finley is not just one of the greatest pitchers in Angels history—he’s part of the very fabric of this franchise,” said team owner Arte Moreno. “This statue will remind future generations of fans what greatness, loyalty, and longevity look like in a Halo uniform.”
Finley, who played 14 of his 17 MLB seasons with the Angels (then known as the California/Anaheim Angels), holds numerous franchise records, including:
Most wins (165)
Most strikeouts (2,151)
Most starts (379)
Most innings pitched (2,675)
A five-time All-Star and a member of the Angels Hall of Fame, Finley was known for his fierce competitiveness, devastating split-finger fastball, and remarkable durability. He pitched against some of the game’s greatest hitters and earned a reputation as a true workhorse in an era of ever-changing rotations.
At the announcement ceremony, Finley, 62, appeared humbled. “I never imagined something like this,” he said. “I just wanted to take the ball every fifth day and give everything I had to this team and this city. To be remembered this way—it’s overwhelming. I’m honored beyond words.”
Teammates, fans, and analysts applauded the long-overdue recognition.
“He was the backbone of our rotation for more than a decade,” said former Angels catcher Bengie Molina. “This statue isn’t just for Chuck—it’s for an entire generation that he inspired.”
The sculpture will be designed by acclaimed sports artist Brian Hanlon, who has created iconic works for stadiums across the country. The piece is expected to be completed and unveiled on Opening Day 2026, coinciding with the 30th anniversary of Finley’s final All-Star season with the Angels.
In a time when the game constantly evolves, the Angels are looking back to honor one of the stalwarts who helped build their foundation. With this statue, Chuck Finley’s legacy will no longer just live in the record books—it will be cast in bronze, standing tall for generations to come.