Brewers Honor Bob Uecker in Emotional Tribute Ceremony
URGENT UPDATE: The Milwaukee Brewers held an emotional tribute ceremony for legendary broadcaster Bob Uecker on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at American Family Field. This heartfelt celebration honored Uecker’s remarkable 54-season career and his profound impact on the Brewers community, following his passing on January 16, 2023, at the age of 90.
Among the attendees were notable figures such as former MLB Commissioner Bud Selig and broadcaster Bob Costas, who hosted the event. Selig reminisced about the early days of Uecker’s career, humorously recalling, “The first scouting report Bob sent back here had mashed potatoes and gravy all over it.” The sentiment echoed throughout the stadium as fans and players came together to celebrate a man who became synonymous with the franchise.
All Brewers players donned special tribute uniforms featuring “UECK” on the back, honoring Uecker’s legacy. The team gathered behind the mound for the ceremonial first pitch, thrown by Bob Uecker Jr. to Robin Yount. The game included commemorative baseballs and bases dedicated to Uecker, highlighting the team’s commitment to honoring their beloved broadcaster.
In a statement, Uecker’s family expressed their gratitude, stating, “To say he loved this team, this city, and this state would be an understatement.” They emphasized the special bond Uecker shared with the Milwaukee community. The emotional atmosphere was palpable as fans displayed memorabilia and wore jerseys celebrating Uecker’s iconic phrases, including “Juuuust a bit outside,” from his role in the classic film “Major League.”
The event was particularly poignant as the Brewers currently hold the best record in baseball, making a push for their first World Series title. Principal owner Mark Attanasio remarked, “Nobody would have enjoyed this more. I believe he’s still with us, but I really miss him.” The emotional weight of the day was underscored by the renaming of the broadcast wing to the Bob Uecker Broadcast Center.
Fans began arriving hours early, eager to pay their respects. John Colson, a partial season ticket holder, shared, “Bob Uecker was my entire childhood… It’s not the same without him.” The heartfelt tributes continued as players and fans alike remembered Uecker not just as a broadcaster, but as a friend who treated everyone with kindness, regardless of their status.
Uecker’s impact extended beyond the broadcast booth. Hall of Famer Ted Simmons noted his invaluable insights as a former catcher, stating, “That’s how we started out. From there, it was great.” Both Selig and Costas emphasized Uecker’s underrated broadcasting skills, affirming that he was a Hall of Fame-caliber announcer.
In a touching moment, Costas recounted Uecker’s poignant sign-off during his final broadcast, saying, “That one had some sting on it.” This farewell resonated with fans as a bittersweet reminder of Uecker’s enduring legacy.
As the ceremony concluded, the community’s love for Bob Uecker was evident. The Brewers’ tribute reflects not only a celebration of his life but also a testament to the profound impact he had on the franchise and its fans. With the Brewers in contention for a championship, Uecker’s spirit will undoubtedly be felt throughout the postseason.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Brewers continue their chase for the title and honor the legacy of Bob Uecker.
