Baltimore Orioles Owner and Renowned Lawyer Peter Angelos Passes Away at 94

Peter Angelos, the well-respected owner of the Baltimore Orioles and accomplished lawyer, has passed away at the age of 94. Angelos, who hailed from Maryland and had a significant impact both in the sports world and legal arena, had been battling illness for several years.

His family, including his son John Angelos, who is currently overseeing the sale of the Orioles to a group led by David Rubenstein from Carlyle Group Inc., confirmed his passing. Angelos was a prominent figure in Baltimore and beyond, and his legacy spans his ownership of the Orioles and his successful law firm.

Commissioner of Baseball, Robert D. Manfred Jr., expressed his condolences, highlighting Angelos’ deep appreciation for owning the Orioles and his contributions to the sport. Angelos, born on the Fourth of July in 1929, built his career from humble beginnings and achieved great success after obtaining his law degree from the University of Baltimore.

In 1993, Angelos led an investor group that acquired the Baltimore Orioles, which included notable figures like Tom Clancy, Barry Levinson, and Pam Shriver. Known for his hands-on approach to team management, Angelos steered the Orioles through various seasons and major legal victories, including a landmark $4.5 billion settlement against tobacco company Philip Morris.

Angelos made headlines in baseball for his principled stance during the players’ union strike in 1994 when he refused to use replacement players, emphasizing the importance of providing Major League Baseball to fans. His efforts also extended to international relations, as he spearheaded the exhibition series between the Orioles and Cuba’s national team in 1999.

Despite the Orioles never winning a World Series under his ownership, Angelos played a pivotal role in the team’s successes and the development of Oriole Park at Camden Yards, an iconic stadium that set a standard for modern ballparks. His sons, John and Louis Angelos, now oversee the Orioles and continue his legacy in both baseball and philanthropy.

Angelos’ influence extended beyond sports, as he had a notable political career and involvement in the horse racing industry. His passing marks the end of an era for the Baltimore Orioles and leaves a lasting impact on the community and sports world at large.