Major League Baseball

Garret Anderson to retire

Published Mar. 1, 2011 12:00 a.m. ET

share

facebookxredditlink

foxsports

Garret Anderson, the Los Angeles Angels' all-time hits leader, announced his retirement Tuesday, MLB.com reported.

"It is with mixed emotions that I have decided to retire from baseball," Anderson said in a statement issued by the Angels.

"I know I will miss many aspects of the game, the grind of playing every day, hitting with the game on the line, the clubhouse banter, making a good defensive play, the guys, the roar of the crowd after a win, and the friendships made throughout the years."

The 38-year-old spent the first 15 of his 17 seasons with the Angels, and ends his career as the franchise's leader in hits, RBI's, runs scored, doubles, extra-base hits, total bases and games played.

"Garret was an incredible player, one with a calm demeanor and quiet confidence that allowed him to excel in this game," said Angels manager Mike Scioscia.

"Garret's role in where the Angels organization is today cannot be overstated. He had a tremendous passion to play this game and a deep understanding of how to play to win and that was very important to this organization. We wish him and his family nothing but the best as he begins the next chapter of his life."

Among his notable achievements, Anderson finished fourth in the MVP vote in 2002, helping the team win its only World Series. In 2003, he won the Home Run Derby and was MVP of the All-Star Game.

The Los Angeles native was a three-time All-Star, with a career .293 batting average, 287 home runs and 2,529 hits.

"Garret was a student of the game, someone who always came to the park prepared to play," said Angels general manager Tony Reagins. "It is gratifying for me to know he leaves the game among the greatest Angels of all-time."

share

Get more from Major League Baseball Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more

in this topic

Major League Baseball