Angels Groundskeepers Honor Late Garret Anderson With Touching Tribute

The team's grounds crew mowed Anderson's initials into the outfield as the Angels prepare to host the Padres.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:09am

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the blurred motion of a baseball player sliding into home plate, with the player's face and uniform details dissolving into unrecognizable splatters of paint, capturing the raw energy and emotion of the moment.The Angels groundskeepers' tribute to the late Garret Anderson evokes the vibrant energy and passion he brought to the game.San Diego Today

Former Los Angeles Angels outfielder Garret Anderson has passed away at the age of 53 due to a heart attack. In a touching tribute, the Angels grounds crew mowed Anderson's initials into the center field as the team prepares to host the San Diego Padres. Angels owner Arte Moreno released a statement honoring Anderson's professionalism, class, and loyalty during his 17-year MLB career, 15 of which were spent with the Angels.

Why it matters

Garret Anderson was a beloved figure in Angels history, having played a key role on the 2002 World Series championship team and being a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger winner. His sudden passing at a relatively young age has deeply impacted the Angels organization and fanbase, making this tribute by the groundskeepers a meaningful way to honor his legacy.

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 played 15 seasons with the Angels, making three All-Star teams and winning two Silver Slugger awards. He was a key member of the Angels' 2002 World Series championship team.

  • 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 played 17 seasons in MLB, 15 of which were with the Angels. He was a three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger winner, and a key member of the Angels' 2002 World Series championship team.

Arte Moreno

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

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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

The takeaway

This touching tribute by the Angels groundskeepers is a heartwarming way for the organization and its fans to honor the memory of Garret Anderson, a beloved figure who played a key role in the team's success during his 15-year career in Anaheim.