Longtime Major League Baseball umpire Angel Hernandez is set to retire after 34 seasons in the majors. Throughout his career, Hernandez has been known for making controversial and questionable calls on the field. Most recently, he faced criticism for making some of the worst calls in the history of the sport, including calling strikes on pitches that were clearly out of the strike zone. His accuracy rate was well below the league average, leading to widespread backlash from players and fans alike.
Hernandez’s reputation as one of the worst umpires in the league has been highlighted in recent years, with viral moments showcasing his inaccuracy. Last year, he ranked at the bottom of the league in correct-call rate, and this season he is currently ranked 67th out of 85 umpires. His performance has led to criticism from players like Cy Young Award winner C.C. Sabathia, who called him “absolutely terrible” and questioned his ability to umpire postseason games. The scrutiny on umpires has increased in recent years, with calls for the implementation of an automated balls and strikes system to improve accuracy.
In addition to facing backlash for his on-field performance, Hernandez has also been involved in legal battles with Major League Baseball. In 2017, he filed a lawsuit alleging racial discrimination, claiming that he had been unfairly treated in terms of postseason assignments and crew chief opportunities. Despite his lengthy career that included umpiring multiple All-Star Games, ALDS, ALCS, and World Series, Hernandez felt that he was being held back due to his minority status. In March 2021, he lost the lawsuit against MLB, but the case highlighted ongoing issues of diversity and inclusion within the umpiring ranks.
The controversy surrounding Hernandez’s umpiring career has reignited discussions about the need for diversity and fairness in officiating within Major League Baseball. While the league has made strides in promoting minority umpires to higher positions, cases like Hernandez’s lawsuit shed light on ongoing challenges faced by minority officials. As MLB commissioner Rob Manfred considers implementing automated strike zones in the future, the issue of minority representation among umpires remains a key focal point in ensuring fairness and accuracy in the game.
Throughout his tenure in the majors, Hernandez umpired in numerous high-profile games and events, including All-Star Games, playoff series, and World Series. Despite his frequent criticism and controversial calls, Hernandez’s retirement marks the end of an era in MLB umpiring. While his departure may signal a new chapter in officiating standards, his legacy as one of the most polarizing figures in the sport will endure. As fans and players reflect on his career, Hernandez’s impact on the game, both positive and negative, will be remembered for years to come.
