The Milwaukee Brewers became the first MLB team to clinch a playoff berth, but while there was plenty of outward joy following their walk-off victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on Saturday night, the celebration was decidedly more low-key.
Part of that was because the Brewers know they have higher aspirations this postseason. And part of that was a special, heartfelt message from a Milwaukee icon.
With a glass of champagne in hand, manager Pat Murphy read a letter from legendary Brewers broadcaster Bob Uecker, who died in February at the age of 90.
‘Howdy, boys. Never a doubt you would get this invitation,’ the letter began.
‘God Almighty picked me to be on his team up here, albeit I’m the third catcher,’ Uecker’s letter continued, drawing laughs from the players.
He continued: ‘I know you guys really don’t need me, but I’ve got to tell you, but I’ll be on the headset every night watching. Don’t forget to take it all in, enjoy it, keep it light and believe in each other.’
From there, Murphy raised a toast to Uecker, who spent 54 seasons as a Brewers broadcaster.
With a 91-58 record and 6½-game lead over the Chicago Cubs in the NL Central, the Brewers’ magic number for clinching the division title entering play on Sunday, Sept. 14, is eight. They’re even further ahead of the West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers, virtually assuring them of a bye in the first round of the playoffs.