Angels Groundskeepers Honor Garret Anderson with Touching Tribute

The team pays homage to the late 3-time All-Star outfielder who spent 15 seasons with the franchise.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 4:18am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract, expressionist painting featuring bold, vibrant brushstrokes in neon colors that capture the dynamic motion and energy of a baseball player, with the player's features and details dissolving into a blur of color.A colorful, energetic tribute to the late Garret Anderson, whose passion and skill on the field left an indelible mark on Angels fans.San Diego Today

The Los Angeles Angels groundskeepers have paid tribute to former outfielder Garret Anderson, who passed away at the age of 53 due to a heart attack. The grounds crew mowed Anderson's initials into the center field as the team prepared to host the San Diego Padres, honoring the 3-time All-Star who spent 15 seasons with the Angels and was a key player on their 2002 World Series championship team.

Why it matters

Garret Anderson was a beloved figure in Angels history, making 3 All-Star teams, winning 2 Silver Slugger awards, and playing a central role in the team's 2002 World Series triumph. His passing at a relatively young age has understandably elicited an outpouring of emotion and remembrance from the Angels organization and fanbase.

The details

The Angels grounds crew mowed Garret Anderson's initials into the center field at Angel Stadium as the team prepared to host the San Diego Padres on Friday night. Anderson spent 15 of his 17 MLB seasons with the Angels, making 3 All-Star teams and winning 2 Silver Slugger awards. He was a key player on the Angels' 2002 World Series championship team, which defeated the San Francisco Giants in 7 games.

  • Garret Anderson passed away on April 17, 2026 at the age of 53 due to a heart attack.
  • The Angels are hosting the San Diego Padres on Friday, April 18, 2026.

The players

Garret Anderson

A former Los Angeles Angels outfielder who spent 15 of his 17 MLB seasons with the franchise. He was a 3-time All-Star, 2-time Silver Slugger winner, and a key player on the Angels' 2002 World Series championship team.

Arte Moreno

The owner of the Los Angeles Angels, who released a statement honoring Anderson's 'professionalism, class and loyalty' during his time with the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Garret will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Angels fans for his professionalism, class and loyalty throughout his career and beyond. His admiration and respect for the game was immeasurable.”

— Arte Moreno, Angels Owner

What’s next

The Angels will hold a pregame ceremony to further honor Garret Anderson's memory before their game against the San Diego Padres on Friday night.

The takeaway

Garret Anderson's passing has sparked an outpouring of emotion and remembrance from the Angels organization and fanbase, highlighting his status as a beloved figure in franchise history due to his All-Star caliber play, championship pedigree, and exemplary professionalism during his 15 seasons with the team.