Just A Bit Outside … Remembering Bob Uecker
Image: YAHOO!
By Cody McClure
“Mr. Baseball” has reached home plate.
Bob Uecker, the legendary voice of the Milwaukee Brewers, and so much more, has died at 90.
The team announced the news Thursday morning, noting it was “one of the most difficult days in Brewers history.”
Uecker had been battling lung cancer, according to his family.
“Mr. Baseball” was a fantastic broadcaster, and former player, too, but he might be most remembered for his comedic skills.
He had more than 100 appearances on Johnny Carson’s late night show back in the day and also opened up for Don Rickles.
Carson was the one who dubbed Uecker “Mr. Baseball.”
Uecker also played a big role in the movie “Major League” in 1989 as a humorous announcer.
“I’m part of American folklore, I guess,” Uecker said to the Associated Press. “But I’m not a Hollywood guy. Baseball and broadcasting are in my blood.”
Uecker got a lot of funny material out of his own playing career.
“Career highlights? I had two,” he quipped. “I got an intentional walk from Sandy Koufax and I got out of a rundown against the Mets.”
After going into the Hall of Fame as a broadcaster, Uecker joked “I still think I should have gone in as a player.”
He liked to tell stories about his short-lived playing career.
“When I came up to bat with three men on and two outs in the ninth, I looked in the other team’s dugout and they were already in street clothes.”
Uecker leaves a hell of a legacy. RIP.
Editor’s Note: Jon Reed wants to give his top five Harry Doyle quotes…
5. “And they’re gonna walk Beck to get to Parkman. Obviously Taylor’s thinking… I don’t know what the hell he’s thinking.”
4. “Dynamite drop in, Monte.”
3. “In case you haven’t noticed, and judging by the attendance… you haven’t….”
2. “He’ll need a rocket up his ass to catch this one…”
1. “One hit, that’s all we got?. . . One goddamn hit?????? (you can’t say goddamn on the air). “Don’t worry, nobody is listening anyway.”