Longtime MLB umpire Bruce Froemming has sadly passed away this week at the age of 86.
Froemming was an umpire for 37 consecutive seasons and worked 5,163 games. The only umpires who have called more games than him are Bill Klem and Joe West. He had the privilege of umpiring 11 no-hitters during his run with the MLB.
“I thought I was in heaven – on the ballfield, professional athletes, I was starting my professional career,” Froemming told The Associated Press. “But never did you dream at the time, ever even think of going to a big league ballpark, because you had so far to go through the minor leagues to even get a chance.”
The Associated Press reported that Froemming fell at his home in Wisconsin around midnight Tuesday. He was rushed to Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Hospital, but he ultimately died due to brain bleeding.
MLB world reacts to this sad news.
"Very saddened to learn that Bruce Froemming has passed," former TV announcer Jim Paschke said. "Legendary MLB umpire. Unforgettable personality. Perpetually affable, congenial and flat out hilarious. Automatic smiles and laughs with him is what I will remember and cherish. RIP."
"RIP legend," one fan wrote. "Hope he's calling balls and strikes in the big ballpark in the sky."
"Very sad news," a second fan commented. "May he rest in peace."
"He should be in the Baseball Hall of Fame," another fan said.