Garret Anderson's Cause of Death Released: Wife Reveals How Angels' Great Died
The death of former Los Angeles Angels outfielder Garret Anderson caught the sports world by surprise because of his relatively young age.
That had a lot of fans wondering about his cause of death. Anderson was only 53 years old. How did he die? Anderson died from a heart attack, his wife, Teresa, told ESPN's Michael Eaves on April 17.
"When someone takes the time to honor you for your accomplishments, to me it's very humbling," Anderson said when he was inducted into the Angels' Hall of Fame. "It doesn't have to be done. To be part of an organization that does have a rich tradition and to be a part of that and to get in where those other guys are that have gotten in before me, it means a lot. It hasn't really sunk in yet."
The Angels paid repeated tribute to Anderson as news of his death spread.
Garret Anderson Was Remembered as a 'Quiet Superstar'
According to the Angels, Anderson was a "quiet superstar." He played 15 seasons with the Angels. The team provided other stats:
- 2002 World Series champion.
- 2016 Angels Hall of Fame inductee.
- 2-Time Silver Slugger award winner.
- 3-Time All Star.
- 4-Time Angels Team MVP.
- Angels franchise record holder for many things, including games, at bats, hits, and total bases.
According to MLB.com, "The Angels will honor Anderson for the remainder of the season by wearing a memorial patch on their jerseys, beginning with Friday's homestand. Additionally, prior to this evening's game, the club will host a moment of silence and run a special tribute video to honor the franchise great."
Angels manager Mike Scioscia praised Anderson when he was inducted into the Angels Hall of Fame. "I think out of all the players that have come through here, there aren't many who have been as talented as Garret," Scioscia said. "I think his passion to play this game was very real, and although maybe it didn't manifest itself the way it did with some other players, Garret played hard, he wanted to win."
He added: "He's got that internal competitive nature that every great player has to have, and he was really the foundation of our championship run back in 2002 and for many other years. He just was a terrific talent and a terrific person."
Garret Anderson Leaves Behind Wife Teresa & 3 Kids
Anderson left behind his wife and three kids.
"The Angels organization is mourning the loss of one of our franchise's most beloved icons, Garret Anderson," said Angels owner Arte Moreno in a statement.
"Garret was a cornerstone of our organization throughout his 15 seasons and his stoic presence in the outfield and our clubhouse elevated the Angels into an era of continued success, highlighted by the 2002 World Series championship," the statement continued.
"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. We extend our deepest condolences to Garret's wife Teresa, daughters Brianne and Bailey, son Garret ‘Trey' Anderson III, and his entire family."
This story was originally published by Men's Journal on Apr 18, 2026, where it first appeared in the Sports section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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This story was originally published April 17, 2026 at 11:48 PM.