“I want to spend more time with my family” - Angel Hernandez opens up on retirement, reflects on his three-decade MLB career

Angel Hernandez, renowned for his controversial calls behind the plate, has hung up his shoes after three decades of service in the major leagues. Hernandez was only 20 when he started calling games in the Florida State League.

This comes after Hernandez and the MLB reached a financial settlement that was being discussed over the last few weeks. According to USA Today, both parties found a middle ground, leading Hernandez to confirm the retirement news on Monday night.

In his statement, Hernandez cited spending more time with his family and kids as the reason for his retirement.

"I have decided that I want to spend more time with my family," Hernandez said in a statement.

The now-retired MLB umpire then went on to talk about the evolution of the game and said he felt proud to have seen it all transpire.

"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."

Angel Hernandez gets candid on officiating in professional league

MLB: Cleveland Guardians at Houston Astros

In the statement, Angel Hernandez also mentioned how becoming an official in a professional league was his passion. He enjoyed his time in the league and thanked his fellow peers.

"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.

"There is nothing better than working in 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."

Angel Hernandez was not the most popular umpire among MLB players, with him catching fire over his calls, especially in the latter half of his career. His polarising calls were always subject to scrutiny among players and coaches.

Over time, he has carried out several major assignments. He has been part of three All-Star games (1999, 2009, 2017), 12 divisional series (1997, 1998, 2002, 2005, 2009, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2018, 2020, 2021), eight League Championship Series (2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2010, 2016), two World Series (2002, 2005) and the World Baseball Classic (2023).