Bruce Froemming: A Legacy in Major League Baseball
Bruce Froemming, who made a significant mark in Major League Baseball as an umpire for 37 years, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 86. His son, Steven, reported that Froemming suffered a fall at his home in Mequon, Wisconsin just after midnight on Tuesday, which resulted in a head injury that he later succumbed to due to complications from brain bleeding. This condition was exacerbated by the blood thinners he was taking for health issues.
Career Highlights
Beginning his journey in baseball as a semipro player, Froemming transitioned to umpiring, starting in the minor leagues in 1958 when he was only 18 years old. By 1971, he had advanced to the National League and made the leap to the combined major league staff in 2000. Over the course of his career, Froemming officiated 5,163 games—ranking him second in history at the time of his retirement in 2007, surpassed only by Bill Klem’s record of 5,373 games.
Froemming’s legacy is further highlighted by his involvement in a record 11 no-hitters, including memorable games like Milt Pappas’s near-perfect game on September 2, 1972, where Pappas retired 26 batters before allowing a walk. Froemming was also behind the plate for no-hitters thrown by notable pitchers such as Ed Halicki, Nolan Ryan, and José Jiménez, and he officiated five World Series during his career.
Reflections on Umpiring
As a young umpire, Froemming had described his initial experiences as a dream come true. Reflecting on his early days in minor league games, he stated,
“I thought I was in heaven — on the ballfield, professional athletes, I was starting my professional career.”
He emphasized the importance of patience and learning from mistakes in umpiring.
Personal Life
After retiring, Froemming took on the role of special assistant to the MLB’s vice president of umpiring. He leaves behind his wife, Rosemarie, whom he married in 1957, their two sons, Steven and Kevin, a sister, Cathy Seizer, a half-brother, Johnny Froemming, and two grandchildren.
