Uecker has knees replaced

MILWAUKEE, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- Hall of Fame broadcaster Bob Uecker had both of his knees successfully replaced Monday morning in a surgical procedure.

Uecker had the knees totally replaced to relieve severe arthritis. Dr. Jim Ninomiya performed the surgery and was assisted by Brewers team physician Dr. William Raasch.

One of baseball's greatest ambassadors, Uecker was inducted to the Hall of Fame on July 27 as the Ford Frick winner for broadcasting. As a player, he had a career batting average of .200 over six major league seasons.

After his undistinguished playing career, he became a mainstream celebrity through commercials, movies, and television, starring in his own network situation comedy.

Uecker was even in a jocular mood on Monday. He was alert for much of the surgery, according to a team spokesman, keeping a running dialogue with the staff in the operating room.

The longtime radio broadcaster of the Brewers, Uecker will begin a rehabilitation program immediately. His partner, Jim Powell, will handle all of the play-by-play duties in his absence.