A famous MLB umpire has recently pulled down the curtains on his officiating tenure. Umpires are not actually friends of the players, to put it out in proper terms. After all, their job is to remain neutral and legally set the proceedings of a game in motion. However, on that note, some umpires do turn into favorites for the players, and Ted Barrett is definitely one of them.
A veteran of the act, Barrett’s umpiring debut in the MLB happened in 1994. He had his last stint on October 23, 2022. Barrett was an umpire in the American League and got promoted to the position of crew chief in 2013. Following the news of his retirement, the MLB community has joined in to bid him farewell.
What did the MLB fraternity have to say about Ted Barrett’s retirement?
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One of the beloved umpiring figures in the MLB realm, Barrett joins a long list of umpires retiring this year. The exit count includes 10 MLB umpires, including seven crew chiefs. This is the largest turnover of the job since 1999. Interestingly, it was in 1999 itself that Barrett got a promotion following the Major League Umpires Association’s mass resignation.
Barrett boasts the record of officiating in 33 postseason series; wherein he served in five World Series championships. Additionally, he has also officiated in two All-Star games and three World Baseball Classics. Thus, leaving a grand umpiring legacy behind.
The Ump Attire network shared the news on their Twitter account by writing, “Happy Retirement Ted!” They also shared Barrett’s words, “After 34 years in professional baseball it is time for me to step off the field. I’m so thankful for my family and friends who have enjoyed this ride with me. I owe it all to Jesus and I look forward to what he has for us next!”
Happy Retirement Ted!
"After 34 years in professional baseball it is time for me to step off the field. I’m so thankful for my family and friends who have enjoyed this ride with me. I owe it all to Jesus and I look forward to what He has for us next!" – @mlb umpire Ted Barrett pic.twitter.com/VDW4EFmyIo
— Ump Attire (@umpattirecom) December 29, 2022
And replying to the tweet, baseball fans, players and former players wished nothing but the best to the retired MLB umpire. Here’s a few reactions:
Dang, still hopeful he’ll send me a hat. Well, he went out styling. Ted’s the man. @MLBUA pic.twitter.com/YFnRLP4v2C
— art ehlo (@Plumsteadrocks) December 30, 2022
Always great to talk to Ted!! You will be missed!! See you at the fights 💪👊
— Alex Bregman (@ABREG_1) December 29, 2022
What an unbelievable human being! Will never forget my first big league start before him.
— Adrian Nieto Jr (@NietoJr17) December 30, 2022
Ted ! Congrats on a great career! You were a pro on your job and a good friend ..
Congrats Again— Juan Castro (@Guaguel7) December 29, 2022
Class act! Enjoy the summers off! Congratulations Ted
— Matt Capps (@MattCapps55) December 29, 2022
Hard working and fair Umpire Congrats Ted on your retirement.
— Jerry Hairston, Jr. (@TheRealJHair) December 30, 2022
Great man and umpire! Congratulations and enjoy retirement
— Kyle Farnsworth (@24_7Farnsworth) December 29, 2022
Congratulations Brother!!
I remember when we were both in the Cal League in 1990. Then we reconnected while I was working for the Rockies from 2005-2009. I appreciate everything you did for me and my family. May GOD continue to bless you!!— Ray Sterling E.M., C. (@CertEMHooRay) December 29, 2022
Therefore, the reactions from the notable MLB figures are thus proof of the players’ fondness for Barrett. Moreover, it’s also evidence of Barrett’s level of excellence in his umpiring judgments.
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So, what are your thoughts on Ted Barrett’s retirement? Do you believe he was among one of the best umpires in MLB? Please let us know in the comments below.
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