Garret

Anderson

A cause wasn’t formally announced. Angels owner Arte Moreno issued a statement saying that the organization is “mourning the loss of one of our franchise’s most beloved icons.” The team plans to wear a jersey patch saying “GA, 1972-2026" for the rest of the season. Anderson got one Hall of Fame vote after finishing his 17-year career with 2,529 hits, 287 homers, and a .293/.324/.461 triple-slash line. He helped lead the Angels to a World Series in 2002, a year in which he finished fourth in MVP voting. and made three All-Star teams.

Anderson hasn’t had any problems with the arthritis that sidelined him earlier this season, but the knee has bothered him since Aug. 5 when he hurt it on Minnesota’s artificial turf. The good news is that in his last 20 games, Anderson has five homers and 26 RBI.

His right knee and left ankle are still a little tender. Jeff DaVanon was in center field yesterday and will continue to play in Anderson’s place against right-handed pitching.

The Angels are still looking at several free agents, but it appears that Stewart might be at the top of their list. Anderson, who might get a new contract of his own this winter, said he would be willing to move to right. There’s also a chance he could slide over to center if Darin Erstad moves to first base.

It looks like the Angels are at least a little concerned that this could turn into a long-term issue. The outfielder hasn’t played this spring because of what the team is calling “biceps tendinitis.”

Anderson will probably be a DH initially, and it’s expected that he’ll spend some time in left field before giving center another try.

Because of his biceps tendinitis, Anderson will probably be used in left field for at least a little while after returning. Jose Guillen will fill in for him in center.

It looks like the Angels could be at full strength this weeekend. Anderson, Bengie Molina, Jose Guillen and Brendan Donnelly are all due back.

Anderson might DH initially, but the plan is still to play him hin in center once he’s up to speed. As soon as he proves that his shoulder won’t be a problem, the Angels could resume contract negotiations with his agent.

At least he didn’t get Vladimir Guerrero money. $12 million per season is too much for Anderson, but as long as the Angels continue to spend $90 million+ on payroll, overspending to keep their stars won’t be a big problem.