Bob Uecker, the iconic voice of the Milwaukee Brewers and affectionately known as “Mr. Baseball,” has passed away at the age of 90.
Uecker died peacefully on January 16 at his home, surrounded by loved ones, according to the Brewers per CNN. His family revealed that Uecker had been battling lung cancer since 2023.
We are heartbroken to announce that Brewers icon & Baseball Hall of Famer Bob Uecker passed away today at the age of 90 pic.twitter.com/EJRBC8Cjj4
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) January 16, 2025
Bob Uecker was born on January 26, 1934, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He was a celebrated figure in the world of baseball, known for his wit, humor, and deep love for the game. His journey in professional baseball began when he signed as a catcher with the Milwaukee Braves in 1956. Uecker’s Major League Baseball (MLB) career spanned six seasons (1962–1967), during which he played for the Milwaukee/Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, and Philadelphia Phillies. Although his career batting average was .200, Uecker became renowned for his self-deprecating humor, often joking about his modest playing statistics.
Following his retirement as a player, Uecker found his true calling in broadcasting. In 1971, he joined the Milwaukee Brewers as a radio play-by-play announcer, a role he continues to hold over five decades later. His distinctive voice, quick wit, and ability to connect with fans have made him one of baseball’s most cherished broadcasters. Uecker’s contributions to the sport earned him the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award from the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2003.
Beyond baseball, Uecker has enjoyed a successful career in entertainment. He became a familiar face on television as the star of the sitcom Mr. Belvedere (1985–1990) and through his appearances in a series of humorous Miller Lite commercials during the 1980s. Uecker also showcased his comedic talents as a guest on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, where his rapport with Carson earned him frequent appearances.
Uecker’s sense of humor extends to his role as the announcer in the cult classic baseball comedy films Major League (1989) and Major League II (1994), where he portrayed the irreverent broadcaster Harry Doyle.
Nicknamed “Mr. Baseball,” Uecker was a fixture in Milwaukee and a symbol of the Brewers’ enduring spirit. Despite health challenges in recent years, including heart surgery, he remained a vital presence in the baseball world, inspiring fans with his resilience and passion. Bob Uecker’s contributions to the game, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark.
Rest in Peace.