World Series: Brewers share Uecker family message

MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Brewers made it back to the World Series after a 44-year drought, but they'll be there without the legendary Bob Uecker.

Uecker family statement

What they're saying:

On Wednesday, two days before the World Series starts at American Family Field, the club released the following statement from the Uecker family.

Some moments are worth waiting for. Generations of Brewers fans have held hope in their hearts, season after season, that someday this city would have its chance at another championship.

That day has come. 

And with it, a truth we’ve always known is finally getting its due: Milwaukee is special. Its people are special. Our team is special.

We are filled with elation and pride, but also longing. A wish that Bob was here to see it, too. 

While we could never speak for him, this is certain: Milwaukee, the Brewers, and the fans meant everything to Bob. Wherever we gather – in a packed stadium, a neighborhood bar, or a living room with the radio turned all the way up – we know he’s right here cheering alongside us.

To the players – You believed in each other and the power of friendship. You carried the city with you every time you took the field, making memories that will last a lifetime. Bob would have been so incredibly proud of what you’ve accomplished.

To the Attanasio family, Pat Murphy, and the coaching staff – You believed in Milwaukee. You invested in this franchise and helped build something worthy of the city it represents. 

To the broadcast team – Thank you for being the voice of our Milwaukee Brewers. For carrying forward a tradition that meant so much to Bob. For honoring him in ways both big and small. And for being a part of our family.

To Brewers fans – You’ve kept Bob’s spirit alive – through a laugh, a story, a cold beer, or a favorite call. We feel your love for him every day, and our family is forever grateful.

So to everyone who kept waiting, hoping, and showing up: This is our moment. 

Milwaukee, let’s get loud, let’s do this together, let’s win OUR way!

The Uecker Family 

Bob Uecker

The backstory:

Bob Uecker died on Jan. 16, 2025. He was 90 years old. Known affectionately as "Mr. Baseball," the professional player, broadcaster, actor and comedian was born in Milwaukee in 1934.

Uecker grew up playing baseball and watching the minor league Milwaukee Brewers play at Borchert Field.

"Actually was a pitcher when I was playing in the sandlots in Milwaukee. I actually got a tryout from the Braves," Uecker said. "They had a guy down there. A pitching coach. He is standing next to me and I am throwing for about 15 or 20 minutes. And he finally said, 'now let me see your good fastball'. This is a true story. And I said, I have been throwing my good fastball. And then he said, 'well then I recommend you get a job'. That is what he told me. I saw him years later in spring training once when I finally got to the big leagues. I asked him if he remembered me. He said no. But I switched from pitching to catching after that when he told me to get a job.

As a catcher, Uecker signed a minor league contract with the Milwaukee Braves in 1959. He made it to the majors with the organization in 1962. And in 1970, Uecker was booked on The Tonight Show starring Johnny Carson. With his self-deprecating humor, he made over 100 appearances. Carson is the one who gave him the nickname, Mr. Baseball.

"I tried to stay around, oh maybe one, two home runs a year. Maybe three or four runs batted in. Because when you get up in that category the next year they are going to expect the same thing from you or even more," Uecker said.

Uecker entered the broadcast booth, calling Brewers games on the radio, in 1971. He continued that legendary career until his death in 2025. 

• Bob Uecker mural tailgate-themed celebration in downtown Milwaukee
• Brewers' Christian Yelich reflects on friendship with legendary announcer Bob Uecker (May 2025)
• Attanasio: Bob Uecker nearly stepped away 20 years ago (February 2025)

This story was updated with a correction.

Milwaukee BrewersSports