MLB
What are Ángel Hernández most controversial calls in his career in the MLB?
The veteran MLB umpire, has been a fixture behind home plate for over three decades. His career has been marked by both memorable calls and heated debates.
Despite the controversies, Hernández’s impact on MLB is undeniable. Love him or hate him, his name will forever be associated with the history of professional baseball. As he retires, fans will adjust to a new era behind home plate, but Ángel Hernández’s legacy will endure.
These are Ángel Hernández top 3 most controversial moments
Controversy with the White Sox: In an extra-innings game between the Chicago White Sox and the Miami Marlins, Hernández made a call that left fans scratching their heads. With Alex Rios at the plate, he ruled him out on a close play, leading to a White Sox defeat. Broadcaster Hawk Harrelson famously expressed his frustration, cementing Hernández’s status as a polarizing figure.
Swing and a miss Mets-Tigers game: During a matchup between the New York Mets and the Detroit Tigers, Hernández made a baffling decision. He called a swing on Spencer Torkelson, even though the bat barely moved. Replays showed that Torkelson hadn’t come close to completing the swing, leaving players and fans bewildered.
Call against Gleyber Torres: In a game featuring the New York Yankees and the Toronto Blue Jays, Hernández’s strike zone was put into doubt. With a full count and Gleyber Torres at the plate, he called a high strike that was well above the zone. It should have been ball four, but instead, Torres was sent back to the dugout. The controversial call sparked outrage among fans and players alike.
The career of Ángel Hernández is a prime example of the difficulties umpires have in a sport where split second choices may decide the outcome of a game. Whatever your opinion of him is that of a villain or a misunderstood character he forever changed the sport.