### Remembering Garret Anderson: The Impact of a Baseball Hero on Freddie Freeman
**DENVER** –– Freddie Freeman, a top player in Major League Baseball (MLB), attributes much of his success to a simple offensive philosophy instilled in him by his father: **”Hit the ball to left field.”**
Growing up in **Orange County**, Freeman found inspiration in three-time All-Star Garret Anderson, who would be instrumental in shaping his approach to the game.
#### A Childhood Hero
Freeman expressed his admiration for Anderson, stating, “As a left-handed hitter, seeing him hit line drives to left field whenever he pleased was incredible.” To Freeman, Anderson wasn’t just a player; he was the embodiment of his baseball aspirations during his formative years.
However, the shocking news of Anderson’s **untimely passing at the age of 53** has left Freeman and many in the baseball community heartbroken. Their relationship grew from admiration to friendship as Freeman’s career progressed.
#### A Lasting Impression
“You always hear, ‘Don’t meet your heroes,’” Freeman shared with **The California Post**. “But when I met him, I was glad I did. He was a beautiful man. He meant a lot to so many people … I’m at a loss for words really.”
Freeman fondly remembers attending Angels games as a child, captivated by Anderson’s hitting prowess and field play. His admiration for Anderson’s ability to direct balls successfully to left field not only inspired his gameplay but also fostered an early love for MLB.
### Anderson: A Role Model
– **Career Highlights:**
– Over **2,500 career hits**
– A key player for the **Los Angeles Angels**
Freeman noted, “When you’re taught to hit to left field and then see a major leaguer doing exactly that, you gravitate toward him.”
#### Crossing Paths
Their paths intersected significantly during **spring training** in 2009 when Freeman was a young prospect with the Braves and Anderson was an established 16-year MLB veteran. Although Freeman never revealed his childhood admiration at the time, their professional relationship has since flourished.
It wasn’t until **2019** that Freeman finally shared his admiration for Anderson. “He finally caught wind of it,” Freeman joked, recalling the delightful surprise it brought Anderson.
### Continued Connections
Through the years, their relationship deepened beyond baseball. Anderson’s children attended school near where Freeman’s uncle worked, and they even played golf together at Shady Canyon Golf Club.
Every visit to Angel Stadium was magical for Freeman, particularly if Anderson was present. “I’d wave over the Dodgers’ team photographer Jon SooHoo to capture the moment,” Freeman laughed.
### Reflection on Legacy
Freeman expressed profound sorrow upon hearing of Anderson’s passing. “53 is too young,” he remarked, noting Anderson’s genuine character and warmth. “To say he ‘was’ my favorite player is really saddening.”
Despite the grief, Freeman chose to focus on the joy Anderson brought to others, celebrating a life that inspired many in the baseball community. “He brought so much joy to so many people.”
In a time of remembrance, the legacy of Garret Anderson looms large, serving as a reminder of how sports can create lasting bonds and inspire future generations.
### Conclusion
Freddie Freeman’s tribute to Garret Anderson is not just a personal farewell but a celebration of the indelible marks heroes leave on our lives. Such connections across generations in sports highlight the importance of mentorship, inspiration, and friendship, and how they shape athletes on and off the field.
