Best known for his sense of humor as an entertainer and baseball broadcaster, Bob Uecker played six years at baseball’s highest level. Born on January 26, 1934, in Milwaukee, Uecker carved out a career as a backup catcher.

He signed with the Milwaukee Braves in 1956 and made his MLB debut in 1962. Uecker played two seasons for the Braves before moving to the St. Louis Cardinals in 1964.

In ’64, Uecker became part of the Cardinals’ World Series-winning team. Uecker also played for the Philadelphia Phillies (1966-1967) before returning to the Braves, now in Atlanta, for his final 62 games.

Uecker’s career statistics reflect his time as a bench player. Over six seasons, he played 297 games, with 65 runs, 74 RBIs, and a .200 batting average. Uecker’s best year came in 1965 with Philadelphia, where he played in 49 games and posted a career-best .345 on-base percentage.

Despite his limited playing time, Uecker’s baseball career laid the foundation for run as a broadcaster and entertainer that lasted more than a half-century. His charm and humor made him a beloved figure in baseball long after his playing days ended.

Shown here is a sheet signed by members of Braves from Uecker’s last season as a player. Notice the signatures of Hall of Famers Phil Niekro and Joe Torre. The autographs of batting champion Billy Goodman and baseball lifer Felipe Alou also appear.

On September 29, 1962, Bob Uecker played a key role in a historic moment at Milwaukee’s County Stadium. He caught Warren Spahn’s 327th career win, a victory that broke Eddie Plank’s record for wins by a left-handed pitcher. The Braves triumphed 7-3 over the Pittsburgh Pirates, with Spahn going the distance. The southpaw scattered eight hits, allowing just one earned run to secure the win. This victory was a milestone in Spahn’s legendary career, which eventually ended with 363 victories. He was later honored with first-ballot selection to the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Uecker, known more for his defense than his bat, had a standout performance at the plate. He went 3-for-4, collecting three singles and driving in two runs. His contributions were crucial in the Braves’ victory that day.

The next day, Uecker caught the Braves’ final game of the season, a contest that saw him hit his first career home run. It was a fitting end to a memorable year for Uecker. His performance in that game, combined with Spahn’s remarkable feat makes 1962 a memorable year for Ueck.

“Spahn shows no-hit form,” proclaims this 1962 Topps offering pictured above that’s autographed by the pitcher. Perhaps the greatest left-hander ever, Warren Spahn threw two no-hitters. The first came in 1960 at age 39. The second came the following year five days after his 40th birthday.

Bob Gibson was one of the fiercest competitors in baseball history. His intensity on the mound struck fear into the hearts of opposing hitters. Dusty Baker always recalled Hank Aaron’s advice about Gibson, warning players not to provoke him.

Baker and Aaron were teammates for 8 seasons with the Atlanta Braves from 1968 through 1975.

Bob Uecker earned a World Series ring as the backup catcher for the 1964 St. Louis Cardinals. That season, he caught 40 games and hit .198. Despite his low batting average, the Cardinals thrived, winning 93 games and the NL pennant. His on-base percentage, however, was significantly better, 117 points higher than his batting average.

The 93-win Cardinals met the New York Yankees in the World Series. Holders of the best record in baseball with 99 victories, the Yankees earned the AL pennant each year from 1960 to 1964. The ’64 Fall Classic proved to be a dramatic contest, with St. Louis and New York battling through seven thrilling games.

Playing every inning of every game in the Series, Cardinal catcher Tim McCarver hit .478 with a .552 on-base percentage. Despite not getting a chance to play, Uecker still earned the coveted World Series ring as part of the victorious Cardinals squad.

Shown here is this 1969 Topps offering highlighting McCarver’s three-run shot in the ’68 World Series. The St. Louis catcher has signed the card across the front. In three World Series of ’64, ’67, ’68, McCarver hit 40 points over his career average, slashing .311/.384/.500.

In the early 1970s, Milwaukee Brewers owner Bud Selig hired Bob Uecker as the team’s announcer. Uecker has deep ties to Milwaukee. Born and raised there, he made his debut for the Braves when the franchise called the Brew City home. Simply put, Uecker is a Milwaukeean through and through.

In the announcer’s booth Bob brought a unique blend of humor and baseball knowledge. He would hold the position for more than fifty years, becoming an iconic voice of the franchise.

Beyond his work with the Brewers, Uecker built a diverse post-playing career on television. He frequently appeared on “The Tonight Show” with Johnny Carson. Impressed by Uecker’s wit, Caron famously dubbed him “Mr. Baseball.” Uecker also starred in the TV sitcom Mr. Belvedere, adding to his entertainment credentials.

In the 1980s, Uecker became a face of Miller Lite beer in iconic commercials. His line, “I must be in the front row,” became legendary. The commercials showcased Uecker’s comedic timing, cementing his status as a pop culture figure.

Uecker also played the announcer Harry Doyle in the film Major League. His deadpan humor and sharp delivery made the role unforgettable. Through his work with the Brewers and beyond, Uecker earned a beloved place in the hearts of fans across the country. His legacy as both a broadcaster and entertainer remains secure.

Shown above is a Milwaukee Brewers payroll check signed by Selig, the man who hired Uecker as announcer for the Brewers. Dated October 15, 1975, the check is the final payment to Del Crandall as manager of the club. Uecker’s first two years in the bigs were as Crandall’s backup for the Milwaukee Braves. For more on Crandall, click here.