Bob Uecker, the iconic voice of the Milwaukee Brewers, has died at 90 after battling cancer, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and love for baseball.
The Brewers announced his death, calling it a tough day for the team. Uecker had been fighting small cell lung cancer since early 2023, but his spirit never wavered, according to his family.
Uecker was not just a player; he was a beloved comedian and broadcaster. He got his nickname during his many appearances on Johnny Carson’s show. Born in Milwaukee, he signed with the Braves in 1956 and made it to the majors in 1962, playing for six seasons.
He won a World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals in 1964 and had a few memorable moments, like getting an intentional walk from Sandy Koufax. Uecker’s journey took him from the field to the broadcast booth, where he became the voice of the Brewers in 1971.
He was a fixture in Milwaukee, and fans loved tuning in to hear his stories and insights. Uecker once said that being part of people’s families through his broadcasts was one of the greatest rewards of his career.
In 2003, he received the Ford C. Frick award from the Hall of Fame, where he entertained a crowd of 18,000 with his humor. Uecker’s big break in comedy came when he opened for Don Rickles, leading to his appearances on “The Tonight Show.”
His warm storytelling made him a natural for color commentary on TV, and he even starred in the sitcom “Mr. Belvedere” and the “Major League” movies. Uecker’s famous line, “Juuuust a bit outside!” became a classic among fans.
Despite his comedic persona, he was a serious announcer when it mattered, sharing his love for the game and his experiences. Uecker took his health seriously in later years, bouncing back from heart surgery to return to the booth.
He was a true Milwaukee icon, with statues honoring him at the stadium. Uecker’s legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and the history of baseball.
