Ángel Hernández Retires: A Polarizing Figure Bids Farewell to MLB

After a career spanning three decades, Ángel Hernández, the veteran umpire whose presence on the field often sparked controversy and frustration among players, managers, and fans, is retiring from Major League Baseball. According to a high-ranking baseball official who spoke with USA TODAY Sports, MLB and Hernández concluded negotiations on a financial settlement over the past two weeks, marking the end of an era.

In a statement provided to USA TODAY Sports on Monday night, Hernández confirmed his retirement, reflecting on his journey since his first major league game in 1991. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to live out his childhood dream of umpiring in the major leagues and emphasized his desire to dedicate more time to his family.

At 62 years old, Hernández officiated his final game on May 9, serving as the home-plate umpire in the Chicago White Sox‘s victory over the Cleveland Guardians. Following this game, he was replaced on the crew by Jacob Metz, signaling the conclusion of his umpiring career.

Throughout his tenure, Hernández garnered attention not only for his calls on the field but also for his involvement in a racial discrimination lawsuit against MLB in 2017. Alleging that he was unfairly denied promotions and prestigious assignments due to his race, Hernández’s lawsuit was ultimately dismissed in 2021, with the 2nd Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals upholding the decision.

Despite the legal setback, Hernández remained committed to his profession, acknowledging the positive changes in baseball’s treatment of minorities since he began umpiring professionally at the age of 20. He expressed pride in contributing to this progress while serving as a major league umpire.

However, Hernández’s career was not without its controversies. In recent years, he faced criticism from players, managers, and fans who deemed him as one of the game’s least competent umpires. Instances of missed calls, particularly during high-stakes games like the 2018 American League Division Series between the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, fueled public outcry and condemnation.

Despite statistical studies conducted by MLB that did not categorize him as the worst umpire, Hernández’s reputation suffered in the court of public opinion. Social media became a platform for fans and analysts to scrutinize his performance, with incidents like Texas Rangers rookie Wyatt Langford’s three consecutive strikeouts on pitches outside the strike zone amplifying the criticism.

Now, as Hernández steps away from the game, he leaves behind a legacy marked by both triumphs and tribulations. While his retirement may bring relief to those who clashed with him on the field, it also signifies the end of an era in MLB umpiring. As the baseball world bids farewell to Ángel Hernández, it reflects on the complexities of his career and the impact he had on the sport.

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