Terry Lee Craft, born on September 12, 1954 in Portsmouth, Ohio, is a former professional umpire who made his mark in Major League Baseball from 1987 to 2006. His impressive career spanned nearly two decades, during which he umpired some of the most iconic games in baseball history.
Craft's love for umpiring first blossomed during his time in the U.S. Army. After serving his country, he decided to pursue his passion and enrolled at the prestigious Bill Kinnamon Umpire School. It was here that he honed his skills and embarked on his journey towards becoming a professional umpire in the big leagues.
Throughout his career, Craft had the opportunity to officiate numerous high-profile games. One of his most memorable moments came in 1997 when he was selected to umpire the MLB All-Star Game in Cleveland, Ohio. He also had the privilege of umpiring the intense 2003 American League Championship Series between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees.
One of Craft's career highlights came on June 29, 1990, when he served as the field umpire during Dave Stewart's no-hitter against the Toronto Blue Jays. This game showcased Craft's impeccable judgement and expertise on the field.
As a native of Portsmouth, Ohio, Craft has always stayed true to his roots. Throughout his career, he had the honor of umpiring games for legendary Hall-of-Famers such as Cal Ripken Jr., Dennis Eckersley, Ken Griffey Jr., and Jim Thome. Craft's professionalism and skill on the field earned him the respect and admiration of players and fans alike.
Off the field, Craft values his family above all else. He has always carried himself with integrity and dedication, both in his personal life and professional career.
Terry Lee Craft's remarkable journey as a professional umpire is a testament to his unwavering passion for the game and his commitment to excellence. He has left an indelible mark on the world of baseball and will always be remembered as one of the greats in the sport.