"Angel Hernandez Retires After Three-Decade Umpiring Career"

 After more than 30 seasons of officiating Major League Baseball games, umpire Angel Hernandez has announced his retirement.

Major League Baseball (MLB) issued a statement from Hernandez on Monday night, confirming his decision to step down:

“Starting with my first Major League game in 1991, I have had the very good experience of living out my childhood dream of umpiring in the Major Leagues,” Hernandez said in the statement. “There is nothing better than working at a profession that you enjoy. I treasured the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I have made along the way, including our locker room attendants in all the various cities."

Hernandez expressed his desire to spend more time with his family as a key reason for his retirement. He also reflected on the significant changes in baseball since he began his career, noting the positive strides in diversity and inclusion within the sport.

“Needless to say, there have been many positive changes in the game of baseball since I first entered the profession. This includes the expansion and promotion of minorities. I am proud that I was able to be an active participant in that goal while being a Major League umpire,” he added.

Hernandez began his Major League journey as a call-up umpire in 1991 and officially joined the Major League staff in 1993. Over the course of his career, he worked three All-Star Games (1999, 2009, and 2017), twelve Division Series, eight Championship Series, and two World Series (2002 and 2005). Prior to reaching the Major Leagues, Hernandez gained experience umpiring in the Florida State League, Carolina League, Southern League, American Association, and the Inter-Alliance in Venezuela.

A native of Havana, Cuba, Hernandez has lived in Florida for many years. His career highlights include being one of two MLB umpires assigned to the historic 2016 exhibition game between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Cuban National Team in Havana, where he and fellow umpire Laz Diaz worked alongside four Cuban umpires.

Hernandez’s retirement marks the end of an era in MLB umpiring, where he was known for both his dedication to the game and his role in advocating for greater diversity within the sport. His contributions to baseball have left a lasting impact, and his presence on the field will be remembered by colleagues, players, and fans alike. As he steps away from the diamond, Hernandez looks forward to new beginnings and cherished time with his family. Read more..