FOREVER AN ANGEL

MLB Team’s All-Time Hits Leader, 53, Dies After Medical Emergency

The star outfielder played 16 of his 17 MLB seasons in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Angels great Garret Anderson died Thursday after suffering a “medical emergency” in his California home, reports TMZ, which obtained police dispatch audio. The star, who became his hometown team’s all-time hits leader in his 15 seasons with the Angels, was reportedly unconscious when 911 was called from his home in Newport Beach. The 53-year-old’s death was confirmed Friday by the Angels, whose owner, Arte Moreno, said he will go down as “one of our franchise’s most beloved icons.” Moreno’s statement added, “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 were immeasurable.” Authorities have not released a cause of death for the married father of three. Anderson played outfield for the Angels between 1994 and 2008, starring on their World Series-winning team in 2002—the franchise’s only title. He went on to play two more seasons, first with the Atlanta Braves and then with the Los Angeles Dodgers, before retiring in 2010.