Angel Hernandez, a longtime and controversial Major League Baseball umpire, has announced his retirement. The decision comes after negotiations between Hernandez and MLB over a financial settlement. Hernandez cited a desire to spend more time with his family as the reason for his retirement. He worked his last game on May 9 and was replaced on the crew following that game.
Hernandez, who filed a racial discrimination lawsuit against MLB in 2017, alleging that he was passed over for promotions because of his race, saw the lawsuit dismissed in 2021. Despite being a part of various historical changes in baseball, Hernandez has faced criticism throughout his career for missed calls and controversial decisions.
His retirement marks the end of a chapter in MLB umpiring history, where he was considered by many players and managers to be one of the worst umpires in the game. Despite statistical evidence arguing against this perception, public opinion consistently labeled him as a subpar umpire.
With his departure, Hernandez leaves behind a legacy of controversy and criticism. His retirement allows him to move on from the scrutiny and backlash that have followed him throughout his career.
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