NEW YORK – Longtime umpire Ángel Hernández, who unsuccessfully sued Major League Baseball for racial discrimination, is retiring effective immediately.
During a career that spanned more than three decades, Hernández, 62, was frequently scorned by players, managers and fans for missed calls and quick ejections – some in high-profile situations.
Hernández released a statement through MLB on Monday night saying he has decided he wants to spend more time with his family.
“Starting with my first major league game in 1991, I had the great experience of living my childhood dream of umpiring in the major leagues. There’s nothing better than working in a profession you enjoy. I valued the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I made along the way, including our locker room attendants in every city,” said Hernández.
“It goes without saying that there have been many positive changes in the game of baseball since I entered the profession. This includes the expansion and promotion of minorities. I am proud to have been an active participant in that goal while I was a major league umpire.”
