Ángel Hernández’s retirement marks the end of an era in MLB umpiring. Love him or loathe him, his presence on the field always sparked conversation. It seems like both MLB and Hernández have found a mutually agreeable way to move forward.
The longtime umpire confirmed his retirement in a statement on Monday night:
“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.”
It’s notable that Hernández’s last game was relatively recent. His departure will certainly leave a void, but it also opens up opportunities for new umpires like Jacob Metz to step up. Change is a constant in baseball, after all.
The legal battle between Ángel Hernández and MLB certainly added another layer to his controversial career.
With the dismissal of his lawsuit, it seems his retirement brings closure to that chapter, allowing both sides to move forward.
“Hernández has failed to establish a statistically significant disparity between the promotion rates of white and minority umpires,” the appeals court said in its 11-page decision.
“MLB has provided persuasive expert evidence demonstrating that, during the years at issue, the difference in crew chief promotion rates between white and minority umpires was not statistically significant. Hernández offers no explanation as to why MLB’s statistical evidence is unreliable.”
Hernández’s journey from the Florida State League to the Major Leagues is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. Starting at such a young age and reaching the pinnacle of his profession is quite an accomplishment.
“There have been many positive changes in the game of baseball since I first entered the profession,” Hernández said in his statement Monday.
“This includes 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.”
Ángel Hernández’s tenure as a full-time MLB umpire certainly had its ups and downs, with his performance often under scrutiny.
Instances like the controversial calls during the April 12 game only added fuel to the criticism surrounding his umpiring. His retirement might bring relief to some players and fans while stirring nostalgia for others.
Angel Hernandez:
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.
There is nothing better than working at a profession that you enjoy. I treasured the camaraderie of my…— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) May 28, 2024
The statistics and memorable moments you mentioned highlight the challenges Hernández faced during his career. Umpiring at the highest level is undoubtedly demanding, and criticism comes with the territory. His retirement marks the end of a chapter in MLB umpiring history.
“Ángel was horrible,” he said. “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.”
Said Yankees pitcher CC Sabathia after the game: “I don’t understand why he’s doing these games. He’s always bad. He’s a bad umpire.”
Hernández’s departure from the game may indeed bring an end to the public scrutiny he faced throughout his career.
While statistical studies might not have labeled him the worst umpire, the court of public opinion often painted a different picture. His retirement allows him to move on from the constant criticism and focus on new endeavors.
