MILWAUKEE -- The Brewers became the first team in the Majors to clinch a playoff berth on Saturday, leading to a poignant moment in the clubhouse following a stirring and seemingly improbable extra-inning comeback win over the Cardinals.
As players, coaches and team personnel toasted the accomplishment with glasses of champagne, manager Pat Murphy read an emotional letter in the spirit of beloved Brewers broadcasting legend Bob Uecker, who passed away in January after a battle with cancer.
The club clarified after the celebration that while the letter carried Uecker's trademark heart and humor, it was written by Murphy, who read it to all those gathered in the clubhouse following the stirring walk-off win.
“I thought it was fitting because the last time we celebrated 'Ueck' was with us,” Murphy said, setting down his champagne glass as he unfolded the letter.
Here’s the message, as read by Murphy:
“Howdy boys, never a doubt you would get this invitation. You did it by believing. Really miss you guys and I wish I was there. Things are good. The God Almighty picked me to be on this team up here, albeit [as] the third catcher. It’s a great league, no day games after night games. No shadows, but you got all the sticky you need to have up here. Told the big guy about you guys. Play hard every night. Not afraid to play for each other. He’s obviously very interested with the group with this uncommon goodness. I know you guys don’t really need me, but I’ll tell you guys … I’ll be on the headset every night watching. And don’t forget to take it all in, enjoy, and keep it light, believe in each other.”
Murphy paused for a moment, then said, “Let’s toast to him and what we’ve achieved so far,” as everyone gathered raised their glasses.
In delivering the message, Murphy said that the Brewers having the best record in baseball, as well as the best road record, deserved recognition especially.
Uecker enjoyed immense popularity with the team and fans. He served as the radio voice of the Brewers for over 50 years, until his death at the age of 90 on Jan. 16.
A Milwaukee native, Uecker fostered a connection to professional baseball in the city that dates to the Milwaukee Braves era. Signed by the Braves in 1956, Uecker played six seasons in the team’s Minor League system before making his Major League debut in 1962. He played one more season in Milwaukee as a backup catcher before being traded to St. Louis. After his playing career ended, Uecker shifted to broadcasting and the rest is history.
In August, the team held a celebration of the life of “Mr. Baseball” in front of a packed house at American Family Field.