Garret Anderson
MLB All-Star Outfielder and World Series Champion · Baseball - MLB
Anaheim Angels
Era
Playing career era - circa 1990s-2000s
Item Type
Baseball
Condition
Very Good condition overall; the signature is clear and bold, though the ball itself appears to be an inexpensive novelty or commemorative import ball rather than an official Major League baseball.
Rarity
Common; Garret Anderson signed frequently during his long MLB career, making his autographs readily available to collectors.
Overall Assessment
A neat, clear signature of a fan-favorite player on a lower-end baseball. Ideal for a personal fan collection, but limited in financial value due to the unsigned ball type.
Authenticity Assessment
Likely authentic based on comparative letter flow, proper inclusion of uniform number #16 (or #40/inscriptions depending on specific jersey number history, noting Garret Anderson notably wore #16 for the Angels), and natural signing speed.
Signature Style
Flowing script with a distinct initial, connected lowercase progression, terminating in a horizontal underline flourish, accompanied by a uniform number inscription (#16 or similar).
Signature Characteristics
Quick fluid motion, looping initial capitals with a compressed middle section and a trailing horizontal cross-stroke beneath the last name.
Ink & Medium
Black ballpoint pen ink, showing standard application on a leather or synthetic baseball surface without visible fading.
Item Description
Standard recreational or budget baseball bearing 'CHINA' stamp near the sweet spot, signed directly on the side panel in black ballpoint ink with a player inscription.
Estimated Value
$20 - $50
Comparison to Known Examples
Matches standard retail and in-person signed baseballs from Anderson's tenure with the Anaheim Angels.
Authentication Tips
Check for consistent smooth stroke flow, correct baseline trajectory, and proper formation of the capital 'G' and 'A' relative to verified exemplars from his playing days.
Certification Recommendation
JSA (James Spence Authentication) or PSA/DNA are recommended, though the certification cost might exceed the raw market value of the item.
Red Flags
The ball is a low-grade 'CHINA' stamped novelty ball rather than an official Rawlings MLB ball, which is common for casual in-person or graph-collector acquisitions but lowers collector desirability.
Provenance Notes
Obtained via in-person graphing or casual trade; lacks formal documentation or certificate of authenticity.
Historical Context
Garret Anderson is best known as a franchise cornerstone for the Anaheim Angels, leading them to their historic 2002 World Series title and holding numerous franchise offensive records.
Market Trends
Stable to modest demand; typical of solid star players from the 2002 World Series championship era whose items appeal primarily to team-specific collectors.
Investment Potential
Low investment return potential; best viewed as a nostalgic collectible for a dedicated Angels fan rather than a financial asset.
Similar Autographs
Other 2002 Anaheim Angels team members such as Tim Salmon, Troy Glaus, or Darin Erstad.
Display & Preservation
Should be removed from the temporary plastic bag and placed inside a UV-protected acrylic baseball cube to prevent leather discoloration and ink degradation.
Interesting Facts
Anderson was a 16-time Angels franchise record holder and an MLB All-Star who drove in 123 runs during the Angels' 2002 championship season.