Hello everyone, today we’re talking about the retirement of one of Major League Baseball’s most controversial figures, umpire Ángel Hernández. After over 30 years in the game and a career filled with both praise and criticism, Hernández is hanging up his umpire mask. Let’s dive into the details.
Ángel Hernández, 62, has been a fixture in Major League Baseball since 1991. His career has seen plenty of ups and downs, and he’s been at the center of some heated debates. One of the most notable moments in his career was his 2017 lawsuit against MLB, claiming racial discrimination.
Hernández argued that he was denied promotions and World Series assignments because of his race. However, the case was dismissed in 2021 by a U.S. District Court, and the decision was later upheld by the 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals. The court found that there wasn’t a statistically significant disparity between the promotion rates of white and minority umpires during the years in question.
Despite this legal battle, Hernández’s career has left a significant mark on the sport. He announced his retirement with a statement reflecting on his journey: “Starting with my first major league game in 1991, I have had the very good experience of living out my childhood dream of umpiring in the major leagues. I treasured the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I have made along the way. I have decided that I want to spend more time with my family.”
This retirement comes after MLB and Hernández reached a financial settlement over the weekend. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred recently discussed the rigorous grading and evaluation system for umpires, which includes mid-season and end-of-season reviews that affect postseason assignments and pay. Manfred emphasized the demanding nature of managing umpires, from evaluations to their career paths and retirement plans.
Hernández acknowledged the positive changes in baseball during his tenure, particularly the expansion and promotion of minorities. “I am proud that I was able to be an active participant in that goal while being a major league umpire,” he said.
However, Hernández’s career wasn’t without controversy. In Game 3 of the 2018 American League Division Series between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, he made three calls that were overturned.
On another occasion, he called three consecutive pitches outside the strike zone as strikes and miscalled seven other pitches in one game. These incidents fueled criticism from players, fans, and commentators alike.
Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez didn’t hold back his frustration, saying, “Ángel was horrible. Don’t get me going on Ángel now. Major League Baseball needs to do something about Ángel. It doesn’t matter how many times he sues Major League Baseball, he’s as bad as there is.”
Folks, Ángel Hernández’s retirement marks the end of an era in MLB umpiring. His career was filled with memorable moments, both good and bad, and his departure will surely spark conversations about the future of umpiring in baseball. As we bid farewell to Hernández, we look ahead to the new generation of umpires who will take up the mantle and continue to shape the game we all love. Stay tuned for more updates and stories from the world of sports!
