After officiating Major League games for over 30 seasons, umpire Angel Hernandez has announced his retirement.
In a statement issued by MLB to the media on Monday night, Hernandez confirmed his decision to retire:
“Since my debut in 1991, I have been fortunate to fulfill my childhood dream of umpiring in the Major Leagues,” Hernandez stated. “There is nothing quite like pursuing a profession that you are passionate about. I deeply value the camaraderie of my colleagues and the friendships I have forged over the years, including those with our locker room attendants in various cities. Angel Hernandez
“After much consideration, I have decided to prioritize spending more time with my family.
“Undoubtedly, there have been numerous positive developments in the game of baseball since I began my umpiring career. Notably, the strides made in the expansion and promotion of minority representation. I take pride in having contributed to this progress while serving as a Major League umpire.” Angel Hernandez
Hernandez umpired his first game as a call-up umpire in 1991 before joining the Major League staff in 1993. Throughout his career, he officiated three All-Star Games (1999, 2009, and 2017), 12 Division Series, eight Championship Series, and two World Series (2002 and 2005). Prior to his tenure in the Majors, Hernandez officiated in the Florida State League, Carolina League, Southern League, American Association, and Inter-Alliance in Venezuela. Angel Hernandez
A native of Havana, Cuba, Hernandez currently resides in Florida. He was one of two MLB umpires assigned to the 2016 exhibition game between the Rays and the Cuban National Team in Havana, where he and Laz Diaz collaborated with four Cuban umpires to officiate the game. Angel Hernandez
