“Finally Made the Right Call”, Baseball Fans in Festive Mood After the Controversial Angel Hernandez Announces His Retirement

Baseball fans have been rejoicing ever since they heard about Angel Hernandez’s retirement. The controversial umpire’s retirement statement sent the entire baseball world buzzing. Mostly due to his seemingly wrong calls, Hernandez was a cause of major ire for every baseball lover. More importantly, even the players used to have high complaints about Hernandez’s decision-making. 

From Kyle Schwarbar’s huge explosion to Bryce Harper’s constant bickerings, Hernandez has been a part of many memorable moments in baseball. Though most of those moments made him infamous instead of famous, the umpire nonetheless always had the support of other umpires with him. That was one of the reasons why the players and fans were so often frustrated by his presence. 

Legends like CC Sabathia had already stated years ago that they couldn’t understand why Hernandez was still working. The controversial umpire had already been kept far away from the World Series and lately even postseason games (his last playoffs appearance being in 2021 NLDS). So it isn’t surprising that even MLB started to wonder whether it was time for Angel Hernandez to officially call it a day.

The umpire to his credit also agreed with the league. As a result, the two came up with a financial agreement that could allow him to retire easily and comfortably. According to The Athletic, part of the reason for Hernandez’s decision was the incredible frustration his family had to go through due to these criticisms. That may have led to him ending his over 30-year-long career.

However, while this is a bittersweet moment for Hernandez, the fans can’t help but celebrate. But then one wonders whether the controversial calls will end or not. After all, this season has already seen some highly contentious decisions being made.

Social media explodes with fans rejoicing after Angel Hernandez’s retirement

Rarely has a retirement generated such a loud celebration as Angel Hernandez’s did. The fans couldn’t stop cheering on and drowning themselves in their alleged victory. “Our long national nightmare is over,” a fan wrote. Certainly, the fans were immensely frustrated with some of his calls. Still, it’s a little jarring to see just how deep that frustration goes in nearly every baseball lover.

“He’s the Woat. There’s no debate. What a career,” another fan wrote. A 2010 ESPN survey noted that 22% of players voted for Hernandez as being the worst umpire in the sport. Sports Illustrated also named Angel Hernandez as being the third-worst umpire in 2006 and 2009. So it seems that fans’ opinions may have some support. 

“His retirement should be a national holiday in the future years. Good riddance!!” a fan commented. That’s quite a big ask but it shows just how happy the baseball fans are after this decision. “Finally made the right call,” a fan made a cheeky comment. Certainly, some of his egregious wrong calls have given some sleepless nights to fans. And finally, a fan wrote something that nearly every fan was saying. “This is the best day in the history of this sport,” a little too much, right? One can imagine that the fans can’t believe something like this is happening. 

Still, it’s hard not to feel empathy for Angel Hernandez. People celebrating your retirement isn’t something one sees every day. Hopefully, there will be more peace and love in his next endeavors.