Major League Baseball (MLB) umpire Angel Hernandez has officially retired, closing the chapter on a career that spanned nearly three decades and was marked by controversy. Hernandez, known for his contentious interactions both on and off the field, leaves behind a legacy of memorable moments and debated decisions.
A Career Full of Highs and Lows
Angel Hernandez began his umpiring career in 1991, officiating thousands of games over the years. Despite his extensive experience, Hernandez often found himself at the center of controversy due to his questionable calls. One of the most notable instances occurred during the 2018 playoffs, where three of his calls were reversed within the first four innings after replay reviews, encapsulating the contentious nature of his career.
Last Game and Legal Battle
Hernandez worked his final game on May 9, 2024, and announced his retirement shortly after reaching a settlement with MLB. This settlement was part of a lawsuit Hernandez filed in 2017, in which he accused the league of discrimination, citing a lack of promotions and limited assignments in playoff games as evidence.
In his retirement statement, Hernandez reflected on his career, saying: "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 in a profession that you enjoy. I treasured the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I have made along the way, including our locker room attendants in all the various cities. I have decided that I want to spend more time with my family. Needless to say, there have been many positive changes in the game of baseball since I first entered the profession. 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."
A Mixed Legacy
Despite his lengthy career, Hernandez had not officiated a World Series game since 2005 and had not participated in a league championship series since 2016. His lawsuit highlighted these facts, suggesting that his controversial reputation may have influenced these decisions.
Even in his final season, Hernandez's calls were subject to scrutiny. In one game, he made three off-the-plate strike calls on Houston's JP France against Texas' Wyatt Langford, further fueling the debate over his umpiring abilities.
Looking Ahead
As Angel Hernandez steps away from the field, the MLB community is left to reflect on his impact. While his career was undeniably filled with contentious moments, his contributions to the game and his role in promoting diversity within the league are also noteworthy.
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