Ángel Hernández Retires: A Controversial Yet Fondly Remembered MLB Umpire

Ángel Hernández, a 62-year-old veteran umpire, has retired from Major League Baseball after a career spanning over three decades. Despite his often-criticized officiating, many in the baseball community have expressed fond memories of Hernández, highlighting his personal interactions and dedication to the sport.

Hernández began his MLB career in 1991 and quickly became a notable figure, albeit a controversial one. His umpiring was frequently criticized, and his calls were often subjects of debate. However, his colleagues and players remember him for his positive demeanor and kindness.

Arizona Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo remarked, 'Whether he's good, bad, or indifferent, I know that a lot of people have a very strong opinion of Ángel. He was a good human being, he treated me well. I always had great conversations with him, and that's what I'll remember most.'

Miami Marlins manager Skip Schumaker echoed similar sentiments, stating, 'I will say that Ángel is a really good guy. That is real... He did a lot of stuff in the community, especially in Florida. If you talk to a lot of guys, they'll say he was one of the nicest guys of the umpire crews.'

Hernández's career was not without its controversies. He filed a racial discrimination lawsuit against MLB in 2017, alleging that he was consistently overlooked for playoff games because of racism. The lawsuit was finally unsuccessful, with a district court judge dismissing the case and an appeals court upholding the decision in 2023.

Despite the legal battles and on-field criticisms, Hernández maintained a reputation for his pleasant personal interactions. Cleveland Guardians first baseman Josh Naylor described him as 'probably one of my favorite umps... He's a very kind person.' San Diego Padres slugger Manny Machado added, 'I love Ángel. Obviously, he's made some pretty foolish calls and stuff, but I think it's human nature.'

New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone also defended Hernández, saying, 'He's wrongly been the poster child to be a punching bag for officiating. The reality is he spent a lot of time in this league and cared about his craft. He's a great guy and I wish him well in his next chapter.'

Hernández's retirement marks the end of an era in MLB umpiring. His last official game was on May 9, 2023, between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians. As he steps away from the field, the baseball community reflects on his long tenure and the personal connections he made.

Ángel Hernández's retirement has elicited a range of reactions, from praise for his character to acknowledgment of his controversial calls. Nonetheless, his dedication to the game and the relationships he built over three decades leave a lasting impression on Major League Baseball.

Key Takeaways

• Ángel Hernández, 62, retires from MLB after 30+ years as an umpire.
• Despite criticized officiating, many praise his kindness and personal interactions.
• Hernández filed a racial discrimination lawsuit against MLB in 2017, but it was dismissed.
• Players and managers remember him as a "good guy" and "nice human being."
• Hernández's last game was on May 9, 2023, between the White Sox and Guardians.