MILWAUKEE — Bob Uecker had many partners in the radio booth over the years, but his partner in Major League—Monte—was Skip Griparis.
Griparis appeared in Major League and Major League II, both released more than 30 years ago. However, the sports comedy film continues to be widely discussed today.
Griparis shared a heartfelt message on Facebook, paying tribute to the Brewers legend and his Major League partner.
“I was in shock. I knew he was getting up there. I had hoped to see him one more time, but I just didn’t get around to it,” Griparis said. “He was obviously an icon, and I was just lucky to be a part of a couple of really great movies. I played the opposite of what Bob’s character, Harry Doyle, was, so that seemed to work.”
The movie was a box-office hit, grossing $75 million and leading to two sequels: Major League II and Major League: Back to the Minors. While the sequels didn’t perform as well as the original, the films remain beloved by many.
The characters were inspired by real-life broadcast teams from the Midwest, featuring a loud, energetic play-by-play announcer and a color commentator with little to contribute.
Watch: Skip Griparis remembers Bob Uecker, reflects on their time in 'Major League'
Griparis said director and writer David S. Ward saw the comedic potential in this dynamic.
“Bob did his job, and I played the foil. I played the straight man, somebody for him to bounce off of. I’ve got an acting degree, so I knew what to do to make us all look good,” Griparis explained. “Don’t compete with him. Just be the opposite, and I think the chemistry is something people really related to.”
Griparis described his time working alongside Uecker in the sports comedy, praising his professionalism and kindness.
"How professional he was, how funny he was, how creative, how kind to me. He was just great. It was an honor; it was exciting to be working with him," Griparis reminisced.
Mr. Baseball was also known for his starring role in the ABC sitcom Mr. Belvedere, which aired 122 episodes.
Uecker spent several years playing the part of George Owens. Tracy Wells, now Tracy Tofte, played his TV daughter, Heather.
TMJ4 spoke with Tofte on Thursday, where she shared how Uecker was like a second dad to her after she lost her mom at 15 and how he and his wife took her under their wing.
You can read that story here.
Griparis also appeared on WTMJ's What's on Tap with Sandy Maxx. To listen, click here.
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