General manager Bill Stoneman retired at the end of the 2007 season and was replaced by relative newcomer Tony Reagins.

Reagins quickly made two headline roster moves, trading shortstop Orlando Cabrera to the Chicago White Sox for starting pitcher Jon Garland, and signing free agent outfielder Torii Hunter.

Partway through the season the Angels traded first baseman Casey Kotchman to the Atlanta Braves for Mark Teixeira.

With the Boston Red Sox securing the AL Wild Card, the Angels would have to face their old foes in the first round of the playoffs once again.

John Lackey gave up a 2-run homer to Jason Bay in the top of the sixth letting Boston take a lead they would not relinquish.