Coroner reveals cause of death for former Angels star Garret Anderson

Former Los Angeles Angels all-star outfielder died last week at the age of 53 from acute necrotizing pancreatitis, officials say.

Published Apr 22, 2026  •  Last updated 9 minutes ago  •  2 minute read

Los Angeles Angels players stand for a tribute to late former star Garret Anderson. Getty Images

Former Angels all-star Garret Anderson died from a condition involving his pancreas, according to reports.

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A spokesperson for the Orange County Sheriff Coroner’s Office told the California Post on Tuesday that Anderson passed away last week due to acute necrotizing pancreatitis, a condition that causes tissue death in the organ.

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According to the Cleveland Clinic medical website, “necrotizing pancreatitis happens when pancreatitis inflammation is so severe that it causes tissue death (necrosis). This can cause both short-term and long-term complications.”

The Post added that Anderson’s death has been deemed natural.

Anderson’s wife, Teresa, previously told ESPN that she thought that her husband had suffered a heart attack.

TMZ Sports reported last Friday that the three-time former all-star suffered a medical emergency at his home in Newport Beach, Calif., with a call for “medical aid” placed at 1:17 p.m. local time on April 16.

The outlet reported that emergency dispatch was told that an unconscious male was found at the scene after receiving a call for service.

Details on Anderson’s playing career

Anderson, who was born and raised in L.A., played 15 of his 17 seasons with the Angels after being drafted by the team in 1990.

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The outfielder played for the team through several different name changes as well, going from the California Angels to the Anaheim Angels to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

During the twilight of his career, he played one season each with the Atlanta Braves and Los Angeles Dodgers before retiring after the 2010 season.

What did the Angels say?

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Angels Hall of Famer Garret Anderson,” the team wrote in a statement on X.

“Garret will forever hold a special place in the hearts of Angels fans for his professionalism, class, and loyalty throughout his career and beyond.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the entire Anderson family.”

What were Anderson’s stats with the Angels?

During his time with the Angels, Anderson was a three-time all-star – also winning an all-star game MVP and home run derby – and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner.

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He collected 2,529 career hits (2,368 with the Angels) and 287 home runs in 2,228-game MLB career.

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Anderson remains the Angels franchise leader in several categories, including games played, at-bats, hits, doubles and total bases. In fact, he played 341 games more than Tim Salmon, who ranks second on the list.

He was a member of the 2002 World Series champion team and was inducted into the Angels Hall of Fame in 2016.

After retiring from on-field action, Anderson worked as an analyst for the Angels, making appearances on pre- and post-game shows.

Garret is survived by his wife, Teresa — who was his childhood sweetheart — and their three children.

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