Former Angels All-Star Garret Anderson died from an issue with his pancreas, officials told The California Post on Tuesday.
A spokesperson for the Orange County Sheriff Coroner’s Office said Anderson passed away last week due to acute necrotizing pancreatitis, which Cedars Sinai describes as “a health problem in which part of your pancreas dies.”
Anderson’s death, the spokesperson added, was deemed to be natural.
Anderson’s wife, Teresa, previously told ESPN she believed her husband had died from a heart attack.
Anderson suffered a medical emergency at his Newport Beach, Calif. home on April 16. Newport Beach Police Department records show a call for service to the home for “medical aid” was placed at 1:17 p.m.
He was 53 years old.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Angels Hall of Famer Garret Anderson,” the Angels said in a statement on April 17.
“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.”
Anderson was picked by the Angels in the fourth round of the 1990 MLB draft and he ended up making his debut for the organization in 1994.
He went on to play 15 years with the team, making three All-Star appearances and helping win the franchise one World Series title.
Anderson, who finished his career with the Braves and Dodgers, also won the 2003 Home Run Derby.
