MLB umps Jeff Nelson and Ed Hickox announce retirement

Field Level Media|published: 02/12/2024, 4:37pm EST

Sep 6, 2022; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Umpire Jeff Nelson listens for the results of an instant replay review of Toronto Blue Jays shortstop Bo Bichette's (not pictured) hit against the Baltimore Orioles during the third inning at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. The review determined that Bichette hit a home run. credits: Brent Skeen-USA TODAY Sports

MLB umpires Jeff Nelson and Ed Hickox both announced their retirement, while Ryan Wills and Clint Vondrak were promoted full time to the major league staff on Monday.

Nelson, a crew chief since 2014, departs after a 26-year career after working the World Series four times and the All-Star Game twice. Hickox had a 19-year career, working one All-Star Game and being on the field for five no-hitters, including two behind the plate.

Umpire Chris Guccione was promoted to crew chief.

Wills and Vondrak each made their major league umpire debuts in 2020 while on fill-in assignments. Wills has been a minor league umpire since 2011, while Vondrak has been in the minor leagues since 2012.

—Field Level Media