Record-breaking umpire Joe West to retire after postseason

Umpire Joe West has officially informed Major League Baseball he will retire after the postseason.

West, 68, broke the record for most games umpired, held by Bill Klem, when he was behind the plate for No. 5,376 in May.

"Breaking the record was the goal," West told ESPN on Monday. "I thought I would do it last year but the season got a little messed up and I don't think it was right to work until the point of the record then just quit."

Known as a colorful figure, West was a lightning rod for controversy at times over his storied career, but was always considered one of the best at his profession from those in the game.

When he set the mark for most games umpired, Hall of Fame manager Tony La…