Bob Newhart was one of the most prolific guest hosts of 'The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson' — but the writers weren't all fans of how he worked.

Uecker was best known nationally for the dry wit he showed on talk-show appearances with Johnny Carson and in the “Major League” movies, Miller Lite commercials and the television show “Mr. Belvedere.

The former backup catcher, whose ability to laugh at himself made him a beloved radio announcer and launched a successful ...