In 1958, a young Bruce Froemming stepped off a Greyhound bus in Waterloo, Iowa, ready to embark on a journey that would see him become one of Major League Baseball's most enduring umpires. At just 18, Froemming, a Milwaukee Custer High School alum, was about to start a career that would span nearly five decades and place him alongside the game's greatest stars.
Froemming, who passed away at 86, left an indelible mark on baseball. He holds the record for the most consecutive seasons as an umpire, officiating nearly 5,200 games.
His career highlights include umpiring the first game at Milwaukee's Miller Park and his final game there, between the Brewers and Padres. His 5,163 games rank third in MLB history.
Froemming also worked five World Series, 10 league championship series, and three All-Star games, including one in Milwaukee in 1975.
After his on-field career, Froemming transitioned to an umpiring supervisor role, often overseeing games at Miller Park until his retirement in 2016. Reflecting on his career, he once said, "How many people can say they did a job all their life that they wanted to do?"
Froemming's journey to the big leagues began in the Nebraska State League and included stops in the Northern, Northwest, Texas, and Pacific Coast Leagues. His passion for umpiring sparked when he answered a newspaper ad for local park umpires, a gig that paid $56 a week. Despite being cut from his high school baseball team, Froemming found his calling in umpiring.
Former MLB commissioner Bud Selig described Froemming as "one-of-a-kind," highlighting his toughness and love for the game. Froemming's dream of umpiring in the big leagues came true in 1971 at Shea Stadium, marking the start of a record 37-year run in the majors. He ultimately logged the second-most games in MLB history, a testament to his dedication and resilience.
Froemming's Milwaukee roots remained strong throughout his life. He was well-acquainted with local sports figures like Bucks coach Don Nelson and attended events honoring Milwaukee icons.
His career wasn't without controversy. Froemming was involved in several high-profile calls, including a memorable game in 1972 when Cubs pitcher Milt Pappas missed a perfect game by one walk. Froemming's decision to call a close pitch a ball led to heated reactions, but he stood by his call, emphasizing the integrity of the game.
Froemming also called balls and strikes for Nolan Ryan's fifth no-hitter in 1981 and was on the field for Dennis Martinez's perfect game in 1991. He participated in a record 11 no-hitters, a testament to his expertise and longevity.
Controversies extended off the field as well. In 2003, Froemming faced a 10-game suspension for a voicemail containing inappropriate language, for which he apologized. He was also fined in 1996 for seeking Mike Piazza's autograph as a favor to his mother battling cancer.
Bruce Froemming's legacy is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep love for baseball. His remarkable career and enduring presence in the game have left a lasting impact on MLB history.