Bob Uecker - affectionately known as "Mr. Baseball" and a beloved broadcaster for the Milwaukee Brewers - has passed away at the age of 90.
The Brewers announced his heartbreaking death on Thursday morning (January 16), describing it as "one of the most difficult days in Milwaukee Brewers history".
Uecker’s family revealed in a statement that he had been battling small cell lung cancer since early 2023.
“Even in the face of this challenge, his enthusiasm for life was always present, never allowing his spirit to falter,” they said.
A Life of Baseball and Laughter
Born and raised in Milwaukee, Uecker signed with the Milwaukee Braves in 1956 and debuted in the majors in 1962. Over six seasons as a backup catcher, he hit .200 with 14 home runs. Uecker earned a World Series ring with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1964 before playing for the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies.
He often joked about his career, saying: “Career highlights? I had two. I got an intentional walk from Sandy Koufax, and I got out of a rundown against the Mets.”
Uecker transitioned seamlessly from the diamond to the broadcast booth, where he became the iconic voice of the Brewers starting in 1971. His humor, storytelling, and deep connection with fans endeared him to generations.
“To be able to do a game each and every day throughout the summer and talk to people every day at 6:30 for a night game, you become part of people’s families,” he once said.
Beyond the Booth
Uecker’s quick wit made him a favorite on “The Tonight Show,” where Johnny Carson dubbed him “Mr. Baseball.” He became a household name through his comedic appearances, including roles in Miller Lite commercials, the sitcom Mr. Belvedere, and the Major League film series, where his line “Juuuust a bit outside!” became a classic.
Despite his humor, Uecker was a serious and respected broadcaster. Brewers manager Craig Counsell, who grew up listening to Uecker, said, “There’s no single person in this franchise’s history who has been as iconic and as important as Bob Uecker.”
Uecker was honored with the Ford C. Frick Award by the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003. His speech, filled with self-deprecating humor, left the audience in stitches. “I still -- and this is not sour grapes by any means -- still think I should have gone in as a player,” he quipped.
A Legacy in Milwaukee
In Milwaukee, Uecker was more than a broadcaster. The Brewers honored him with two statues, one outside American Family Field and another in the back of Section 422, commemorating his famous line, “I must be in the front row!”
Even as his national profile grew, Uecker stayed loyal to his roots. “You talk about all the things Bob has done, he never wanted to leave Milwaukee,” said former Brewers owner and MLB commissioner Bud Selig.
Uecker’s love for the game and his hometown was evident in everything he did, from presiding over the closing of Milwaukee County Stadium to sharing memories during Brewers broadcasts.
Remembering “Ueck”
For fans, players, and colleagues, Uecker’s stories, humor, and passion will remain indelible. “I’m part of American folklore, I guess,” Uecker told The Associated Press in 2003. “But I’m not a Hollywood guy. Baseball and broadcasting are in my blood.”
Bob Uecker leaves behind a legacy of laughter, baseball, and an unwavering love for Milwaukee—a true legend of the game and the broadcast booth.
Our thoughts go out to Ueker's family, friends, and fans at this time.