Any official in any sport will tell you they are happy to be unnoticed, to simply be part of the game and let the milestones and great moments wash over them. The joy of being that close to the action is more than enough job satisfaction.
After 29 years as a major league baseball umpire, Jim Joyce (born October 3, 1955) has more than once been described as the best umpire in baseball. One time, that compliment came just weeks after his incorrect call cost a pitcher a perfect game. That’s what baseball people really think about Jim Joyce.
Through the years, the Toledo, Ohio native lived the dream with class and attention to detail. Jim joined the ranks of the men in blue almost immediately after graduation from Bowling Green, working his way through the minor leagues, catching on first in the American League in 1989. His commanding calls behind the plate and, on the bases, could be heard throughout the ballpark. Joyce worked three all-star games, three world series, four league championship series and ten divisional series. He became an MLB crew chief in 2013. Jim became an Oregonian in 1981 and started his family in Beaverton.
His career included being part of many great moments. He was on the bases for a no-hitter in 2008 and again in 2010 for a perfect game.
One month later came the night when everyone would know Jim Joyce’s name. Armando Galarraga was pitching a perfect game for the Detroit Tigers. With one out remaining, Joyce misjudged a play at first, allowing a hit. He knew almost immediately he had got the call wrong, and his owning of the moment drew respect and praise. ESPN the magazine released a poll just weeks later that revealed 100 anonymous MLB players believed Jim Joyce was the best umpire in baseball.
In 2012, a more serious matter, Joyce would perform CPR on a team employee at an Arizona Diamondbacks game, saving her life.
Jim Joyce has been honored by the Baseball Writers of America, American Heart Association, Central Catholic High School (Toledo, OH) and Irish American Baseball halls of fame