THE RETIREMENT
Angel Hernandez, a polarizing figure in Major League Baseball, has announced his retirement after more than three decades on the field. The 62-year-old umpire, known for his controversial calls and numerous disputes, has been a prominent yet divisive figure in the sport.
Lawsuits and Criticism
Angel Hernandez‘s career was marred by a racial discrimination lawsuit he filed against MLB in 2017. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2021, with an appeals court upholding the decision. Despite these legal battles, Hernandez continued to face heavy criticism from players and fans alike for his on-field performance.
Career Highlights of Angel Hernandez
Hernández began his umpiring career in the Florida State League at 20 and was promoted to a full-time MLB umpire in 1993. Throughout his career, he umpired thousands of games and made countless calls, some of which sparked significant controversy. One notable incident in 2018 saw three of his calls overturned by replay in a single playoff game, drawing harsh criticism from both fans and analysts.
Last Game of Angel Hernandez
Angel Hernandez worked his final game on May 9, officiating as the home-plate umpire in a matchup between the Chicago White Sox and the Cleveland Guardians. Following this game, he was replaced by Jacob Metz and did not return to the field. His retirement comes after a season plagued by a back injury that limited his appearances.
Impact and Legacy
Despite the controversies, Hernandez leaves behind a legacy of resilience and dedication. In his retirement statement, he expressed gratitude for living out his childhood dream and highlighted the positive changes in baseball, particularly the promotion of minorities. He emphasized his pride in contributing to these changes during his tenure as an umpire.
Angel Hernandez on the Future
As Hernandez steps away from the spotlight, he plans to spend more time with his family. His departure marks the end of an era, but his impact on the game—both positive and negative—will be remembered by those who followed his career closely. The MLB community remains divided on his legacy, but there is no denying that Hernandez was a significant figure in the sport.
Angel Hernandez’s Final Thoughts
As Hernandez looks back on his career, he is filled with a mix of emotions. He is proud of the experiences he has had, the friendships he has made, and the memories he has created. He is grateful for the opportunity to live out his childhood dream of umpiring in the major leagues.
As MLB looks forward, the retirement of Angel Hernandez opens a new chapter for umpiring in the league, potentially paving the way for advancements and changes in how the game is officiated.
Watch here : Umpire Angel Hernandez’s worst Calls.
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