Former Angels Star Garret Anderson Dies at 53

The longtime Angels outfielder was a key part of the team's 2002 World Series championship.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 12:18am by

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and tension of a baseball swing, with the ball and field rendered in sharp, overlapping planes of color, conveying the excitement and significance of the Angels' 2002 World Series victory.A cubist interpretation of Garret Anderson's game-changing hit that clinched the Angels' first World Series title, capturing the raw energy and drama of that historic moment.San Francisco Today

Garret Anderson, one of the greatest players in Angels franchise history, has passed away at the age of 53. During his 17-year tenure with the Angels, Anderson helped the team reach the pinnacle of the sport by delivering the game-winning hit in Game 7 of the 2002 World Series. He is the Angels' all-time leader in several offensive categories, including hits, doubles, and RBIs.

Why it matters

Anderson's passing marks the end of an era for the Angels, as he was a consistent star and fan favorite during the most successful stretch in franchise history. His clutch performance in the 2002 World Series cemented his legacy as an Angels legend, and his consistent production over many seasons made him one of the most underappreciated players of his era.

The details

Anderson spent his entire 17-year MLB career with the Angels, batting .296 with a .327 on-base percentage, .469 slugging percentage, and .796 OPS. He was a three-time All-Star, won two Silver Slugger Awards, and holds several franchise records, including hits (2,368), doubles (489), total bases (3,743), and RBIs (1,292). His most memorable moment came in Game 7 of the 2002 World Series, when his three-RBI double in the 6th inning gave the Angels their first and only championship.

  • Anderson played for the Angels from 1995 to 2008.
  • He won the 2003 Home Run Derby and was named the 2003 All-Star Game MVP.
  • Anderson recorded 10 RBIs in a single game against the New York Yankees in 2007.

The players

Garret Anderson

A 17-year veteran who spent his entire MLB career with the Angels, Anderson was a three-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, and the franchise's all-time leader in several offensive categories.

Los Angeles Angels

The professional baseball team based in Anaheim, California, which Anderson played for from 1995 to 2008.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

Garret Anderson's passing marks the end of an era for the Angels, as he was a consistent star and fan favorite during the team's most successful stretch in franchise history. While he may not have had the big personality or eye-popping stats that often captivate fans, Anderson's steady production and clutch performance in the 2002 World Series cemented his legacy as an Angels legend and one of the most underappreciated players of his era.