C.B. Bucknor to Retire After 2026 Season After Accepting MLB Buyout

Reporters say Bucknor accepted a buyout that will end his 30-year career, foreshadowing a wave of veteran retirements as automated ball‑strike review tightens scrutiny.

Overview

USA Today columnist Bob Nightengale reported on Sunday that 63-year-old C.B. Bucknor has accepted Major League Baseball’s buyout and will retire following the 2026 season.
Bucknor has not worked since a 100.2 mph foul ball struck his mask on April 1, and multiple outlets say his absence has been for health reasons rather than discipline.
This season MLB’s Automated Ball‑Strike (ABS) system overturned several of Bucknor’s home‑plate calls, increasing attention on his long‑running criticism from players and media.
He began in the National League in 1996 and became the longest‑tenured active umpire after Phil Cuzzi’s February retirement, making his planned exit part of a notable senior turnover.
Bucknor is reported to be one of seven veteran umpires taking buyouts that will end their careers after 2026, a shift that could open spots for new officials and prompts questions about how MLB balances experience with automated review.