Baseball's most contentious umpire, Angel Hernandez, is finally hanging up his hat. Hernandez, a figure long embroiled in controversy and subject to widespread criticism throughout his career, has decided to retire.
According to a baseball insider, MLB initiated discussions with Hernandez earlier this season regarding the prospect of retirement. With mounting scrutiny and Hernandez's own willingness to transition, the decision to step away became mutually agreed upon. Since May 9, he hasn't officiated any games as negotiations for his departure and a financial settlement unfolded.
Hernandez's attorney, Kevin Murphy, clarified to The Athletic via text that his client's departure was voluntary, stating, "He was NOT forced out." The retirement is anticipated to take effect immediately.
Having umpired his first MLB game back in 1991, Hernandez has been a polarizing figure over the past decade, consistently generating controversy. His notably expansive and inconsistent strike zone, penchant for rapid ejections, and his unsuccessful discrimination lawsuit against MLB in 2017 have kept him in the spotlight in a profession where most prefer to remain inconspicuous.
USA Today initially reported Hernandez's retirement, which was subsequently confirmed by MLB in a statement from Hernandez himself. In the statement, Hernandez reflected on his journey since his debut, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to fulfill his childhood dream and acknowledging positive changes in baseball, particularly in diversity and inclusion. He cited a desire to spend more time with his family as a motivating factor for his decision.
While the exact reasons behind Hernandez's retirement remain unclear, it's plausible that the persistent criticism he faced played a role. Murphy revealed in a recent profile that Hernandez was deeply affected by the unjust scrutiny, particularly witnessing the distress it caused his family.
The league's decision to initiate discussions with Hernandez stemmed partly from the consistent distraction he posed. Many players, including Bryce Harper, Ian Kinsler, and C.C. Sabathia, have voiced their frustrations with Hernandez over the years, calling for his departure. MLB itself criticized Hernandez's decision-making and conflict resolution skills, citing them as barriers to his advancement to a full-time crew chief position.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred hinted at the retirement process for umpires during a recent press briefing at MLB's owners' meetings, alluding to considerations such as career longevity and retirement planning beyond mere evaluation, training, and discipline. Though not directly mentioning Hernandez, his remarks shed light on the broader context of umpire management within the league.