How MLB finally ended umpire tenure

MLB

By Justin Tasch

MLB had apparently seen enough, and Angel Hernandez was apparently ready to walk away for the right price.

The 62-year-old and MLB reached a financial agreement that led to the controversial umpire leaving the league after more than 30 years, according to multiple reports.

MLB contacted Hernandez earlier this season about possible retirement, according to The Athletic, and USA Today reported that the two sides spent the last two weeks negotiating a settlement.

Hernandez’s attorney, Kevin Murphy, told The Athletic in a text message: “He was NOT evicted.”

Hernandez, who last appeared in an MLB game on May 9, confirmed Monday evening that he was retiring.

“Since my first Major League game in 1991, I have had the great experience of living my childhood dream of umpiring in the major leagues,” Hernández said in a statement. “There is nothing better than doing a job you love. I cherished the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I made along the way, including our locker room attendants in all the different cities.

“I decided I wanted to spend more time with my family. Needless to say, there have been many positive changes in baseball since I entered the profession. This includes the expansion and promotion of minorities. I am proud to have been able to actively participate in this goal while being a Major League umpire.

Hernandez has faced criticism from players and fans for poor calls, with his strike zone as home plate umpire often the source of frustration.

He filed a lawsuit against MLB in 2017 in which he alleged he failed to become a team manager and receive World Series assignments because of his race.

He also alleged that Joe Torre, who worked in baseball operations in the commissioner’s office, had animosity toward him dating back to his time as Yankees manager.

The lawsuit was dismissed in 2021, and a federal appeals court denied Hernandez’s request to reinstate the case last year.