Bob Uecker’s best quotes from his illustrious career

On By Littum

game

Longtime Milwaukee Brewers play-by-play broadcaster Bob Uecker died Thursday, January 16, at the age of 90, just ten days shy of his 91st birthday.

The esteemed broadcaster’s unique voice on the radio led to numerous unforgettable calls, analogies and moments spanning his tenure with the Brewers. Uecker entertained fans in the stands but also found success on the diamond as a member of the 1964 World Champion St. Louis Cardinals and the silver screen, having appeared in several Hollywood films.

“While this one-time backup catcher was known for his self-deprecating style, Bob Uecker was one of the game’s most beloved figures throughout his 70-year career in baseball,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement Thursday.

It was Uecker’s style and wit that captivated audiences wherever he went. He demanded fans’ attention and offered a unique dialogue and enthusiasm that would be hard to find in even the most die hard fans. That level of passion led to some of the most iconic lines in baseball history. Here are our favourites.

Remember Bob Uecker: The baseball world reacts to the passing of Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Uecker

“Juuuuuuuuuust a little outside” – Major League

One of Uecker’s most memorable roles in Hollywood was as Cleveland Indians broadcaster Harry Doyle. Uecker’s delivery led to several hysterical moments such as “Don’t worry, nobody’s listening anyway” to justify swearing on air and “He’s not the best color man in the league for nothing, guys” after throwing to his TV partner, who had nothing to add.

However, those moments pale in comparison to Uecker’s now iconic “Juuuuuuuust a bit outside” in reference to Charlie Sheen’s character Ricky Vaughn’s lack of control on the mound.

Of course, the Cleveland ball club eventually turned things around in the movie, leading to another incredible moment of passion that only Uecker could provide.

“The easiest way to catch a breaking ball was to wait until it stopped rolling and just pick it up” – referring to teammate Phil Niekro

Before becoming a broadcaster, Uecker was a backup catcher for the Braves, Cardinals and Phillies. During his tenure, Uecker was the backstop for one of baseball’s most prestigious knuckleballers, Phil Niekro.

Uecker wasn’t shy about explaining the difficulty of catching a breaking ball. On Niekro’s Hall of Fame PageUecker is quoted as saying that he “got to meet a lot of important people. They’re all behind home plate.”

While it may have been difficult for Uecker to catch breaking balls, he was certainly the man for the job. His presence behind home plate was likely a big help to Niekro’s career. Niekro was just 28 years old when Uecker joined the Braves, and with Uecker behind the plate, Niekro’s ERA dropped from 4.11 in 1966 to a league-best 1.87 in 1967.

“I would set records that will never be matched, 90% I hope will never be printed” – Uecker’s Hall of Fame speech

Uecker may be in the Baseball Hall of Fame, but it certainly isn’t for his playing career. Uecker was a career .200 hitter, known more for his shenanigans on the field than his game—though he hit home runs off Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax, Gaylord Perry and Ferguson Jenkins.

Still, during his Hall of Fame speech, Uecker didn’t shy away from his minor playing career. He joked about players getting brand deals and claimed he had received several of his own, from brands who asked that he never be seen wearing their gear. He also poked fun at his batting average, pointing out that some of the best bowlers in the world also averaged 200s.

“How about getting your foot off my shoulder?” – Uecker to Andre the Giant at WrestleMania IV

Outside of baseball, Uecker made a few appearances as a ringside announcer for the WWF (now WWE). At WrestleMania III, Uecker played a central role in the event, which led to his being called back a year later to interview Andre the Giant prior to his headlining match against Hulk Hogan for the WWE Championship.

Despite the fact that Andre was a head and a half taller than Uecker, the legendary commentator did not hesitate to try to throw a subtle jab at the giant at the end of their interview. Unfortunately for Eucker, this led to him being playfully choked by the wrestler, leading to an incredible TV moment for the WWF.

(This story was updated to add a new video and photo gallery.)

The USA TODAY app brings you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crossword puzzles, audio storytelling, the e-newspaper and more.