‘Everybody is putting us down’: Veteran MLB umpire slams ‘nasty’ baseball culture

The job of a big-league umpire is hardly glamorous. Those tasked with calling balls and strikes can draw the ire of a great many — onlookers, managers and players alike.

It's for this reason, and many others, that the old guard of big-league umps are falling away. Angel Hernandez stepped away in 2024. Now, another notable backstop — Laz Diaz — will join him in the sunset.

Diaz announced his intention to retire in an interview with USA Today's Bob Nightengale. He also offered insight into the trials and tribulations associated with the profession.

"I tell these young guys there’s so much pressure in this game," Diaz said. "So, if you’re not going to have fun in this game, don’t do it. Do not do it. It’s not worth it. There’s just so much scrutiny and negative stuff now."

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Diaz cited the criticism fellow veterans Hernandez and C.B. Bucknor drew throughout their careers as reason to avoid pursuing the position.

"It’s nasty. We don’t get the recognition. Everybody is putting us down. Like with Angel [Hernandez] and C.B. [Bucknor], they got so much criticism, and they’re great umpires. But everything is just so (expletive) negative."

Diaz said he was content with what he accomplished during his 31-year career. He found joy in his relationships with those involved in the sport, from umpires to grounds crew. He won't be yearning to return to the diamond any time soon, though.

"What I won’t miss is the game," Diaz said. "Not one bit. It’s just changed so much. There’s so much more technical stuff. It’s kind of restricted us. I mean, everything is black and white now. You can’t manage the game."