In the world of Major League Baseball, few names resonate with the same authority as Bruce Froemming. Starting from humble beginnings, this Milwaukee native embarked on a remarkable journey that would see him become one of the most enduring figures in the sport.
Froemming's story began in 1958 when, at just 18 years old, he stepped off a Greyhound bus in Waterloo, Iowa, ready to start his career as an umpire. Armed with a $20 coat, he set out on a path that would eventually place him among baseball's greats. Over a career spanning nearly five decades, Froemming set the MLB record for the most consecutive seasons as an umpire, officiating close to 5,200 games.
His career was filled with memorable moments, from calling the first game at Milwaukee's Miller Park to ending his on-field tenure at the same venue. With 5,163 games under his belt, Froemming ranks third in MLB history for games umpired. He was a fixture in five World Series, ten league championship series, and three All-Star games, including one in his hometown in 1975.
Beyond the field, Froemming took on the role of umpiring supervisor, frequently overseeing games at Miller Park until his retirement in 2016. Reflecting on his career in 2007, he expressed gratitude for having pursued his lifelong passion: "How many people can say they did a job all their life that they wanted to do?"
Froemming's journey to the major leagues was a testament to perseverance. It began with a newspaper ad seeking umpires, which led him to a $56-a-week job.
Despite being cut from his high school baseball team, Froemming's determination never wavered. Former MLB commissioner Bud Selig described him as "rough, tough, the kind of disposition an umpire needs."
His big league debut came in 1971 at Shea Stadium, marking the start of an illustrious 37-year run. Froemming's longevity in the game was second only to Bill Klem, a record later surpassed by Joe West.
While Froemming's career was marked by excellence, it wasn't without controversy. In 1972, he made a call that denied Cubs pitcher Milt Pappas a perfect game, a decision that sparked debate but underscored Froemming's commitment to fairness. He was also part of Nolan Ryan's fifth no-hitter in 1981 and was on the field for Dennis Martinez's perfect game in 1991, contributing to a record 11 no-hitters.
Froemming's tenure included memorable moments like ejecting Yankees manager Billy Martin in the 1976 World Series and making pivotal calls in playoff games. However, his career also faced challenges off the field. In 2003, he was suspended for an inappropriate voicemail, a mistake for which he publicly apologized.
Despite these controversies, Froemming's legacy in baseball remains significant. His dedication to the game and his unique personality left an indelible mark on those who knew him. As Milwaukee sports announcer Jim Paschke noted, Froemming's humor and affability were as memorable as his umpiring skills.
Bruce Froemming's life in baseball is a testament to passion, resilience, and the impact one individual can have on a sport. His story is a reminder of the dedication required to reach the pinnacle of any profession and the colorful journey along the way.