1978 California Angels season

The 1978 California Angels season was the 18th season of the Angels franchise in the American League, the 13th in Anaheim, and their 13th season playing their home games at Anaheim Stadium. The Angels finished the season tied for second in the American League West with a record of 87 wins and 75 losses.

Late in the season, the Angels suffered the loss of outfielder Lyman Bostock when Bostock was murdered on September 23 in Gary, Indiana.

This was the Angels' first winning season since 1970.

Offseason

November 21, 1977: Lyman Bostock was signed as a free agent by the Angels.
December 5, 1977: Bobby Bonds, Richard Dotson and Thad Bosley were traded by the Angels to the Chicago White Sox for Brian Downing, Chris Knapp, and Dave Frost.
December 8, 1977: Jerry Remy was traded by the Angels to the Boston Red Sox for Don Aase and cash.
January 15, 1978: Gary Nolan was released by the Angels.
March 20, 1978: Fred Kuhaulua was released by the Angels.
March 25, 1978: Merv Rettenmund was signed as a free agent by the Angels.

On May 12, Angels pitcher Nolan Ryan struck out Buddy Bell for the 2500th strikeout of his career.

Note: Pos = Position; G = Games played; AB = At bats; H = Hits; Avg. = Batting average; HR = Home runs; RBI = Runs batted in

Note: G = Games played; AB = At bats; H = Hits; Avg. = Batting average; HR = Home runs; RBI = Runs batted in

Note: G = Games pitched; IP = Innings pitched; W = Wins; L = Losses; ERA = Earned run average; SO = Strikeouts

Note: G = Games pitched; IP = Innings pitched; W = Wins; L = Losses; ERA = Earned run average; SO = Strikeouts

Note: G = Games pitched; W = Wins; L = Losses; SV = Saves; ERA = Earned run average; SO = Strikeouts