Bob Uecker, a beloved broadcaster and former player, will be returning to the microphone for the Milwaukee Brewers’ home opener against the Minnesota Twins. At 90 years old, Uecker’s broadcasting workload for the rest of the season is uncertain, but he is expected to call the game on April 2 and take it one day at a time from there. Uecker has been a fixture in Milwaukee baseball for over 50 years, serving as the voice of the Brewers since 1971 and limiting himself to home radio assignments in recent years.
Despite his age, Uecker has remained an integral part of the Brewers’ organization, maintaining a regular pregame presence on the field and in the locker room last season. He even joined in the team’s celebration after they clinched the NL Central title. The Brewers have honored Uecker with two statues, one outside American Family Field and another in the terrace level, a reference to his famous line from a Miller Lite commercial. Uecker’s 50th season of broadcasting baseball was celebrated during the 2020 campaign, highlighting his enduring legacy in the sport.
Before becoming a broadcaster, Uecker played in the majors from 1962-67 with several teams, including the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, and Philadelphia Phillies. However, it was his post-playing career that brought him fame, as he worked as a national color commentator for ABC and NBC baseball telecasts. Uecker’s popularity extended beyond baseball, with appearances on late-night talk shows, beer commercials, and the movie “Major League.” He also starred in the ABC sitcom “Mr. Belvedere,” which aired over 100 episodes from 1985-90.
Uecker’s return to the broadcast booth for the Brewers’ home opener is a significant moment for fans in Milwaukee, marking the official start of summer for many. The team’s president of business operations, Rick Schlesinger, expressed excitement for Uecker’s return, highlighting his iconic status in the city and the organization. As Uecker takes it one day at a time with his broadcasting duties, fans can look forward to hearing his familiar voice calling the action for the Brewers throughout the season.
Despite his age and the challenges that come with it, Uecker’s passion for the game and his dedication to his craft remain as strong as ever. His presence in the broadcast booth adds a sense of nostalgia and continuity for fans who have followed his career for decades. As the Brewers continue their season, Uecker’s return serves as a reminder of the enduring connection between the team, its fans, and the legendary broadcaster who has been a part of the organization for over 50 years.
The upcoming home opener against the Twins will be a special moment for Uecker and Brewers fans alike, as they celebrate the return of a broadcasting icon and the start of another season of baseball in Milwaukee. With Uecker’s familiar voice guiding them through the ups and downs of the season, the team and its supporters can look forward to another memorable year of Brewers baseball, filled with excitement, passion, and the enduring legacy of Bob Uecker.
