Full Breakdown
Milwaukee Brewers Introduce "Pocket Tortoise" During Rain-Delayed Game
4/4/2026, 9:44:34 PM
Unique On-Field Moments with Pat Murphy
During a recent rain-delayed game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the Kansas City Royals, Brewers manager Pat Murphy introduced a new quirky element to his sideline interview with Apple TV reporter Tricia Whitaker: a Sulcata tortoise named Bobby Jr. This follows last year's viral moment when Murphy famously pulled out "pocket pancakes" from his hoodie during a game, which led to the introduction of the concession item at American Family Field.
The idea for the tortoise came as Murphy sought to create a memorable moment for the interview. He had initially planned to bring a turtle, and with the help of the Royals' visiting clubhouse staff, he was able to acquire Bobby Jr. from a nearby pet store, John’s Exotic Pet Store, for $400. The tortoise was intended to replace the pancakes, as Murphy humorously noted, “I didn’t want to pull out pancakes, so here we are. Now, we got pocket turtles.”
The Tortoise's Journey and Future
Bobby Jr. quickly became a talking point during the rain delay, but logistical issues arose when it was discovered that American Airlines has a strict no reptiles policy, preventing Whitaker from taking the tortoise home. As a result, Bobby Jr. remained in the visiting clubhouse at Kauffman Stadium under a heat lamp, with plans for the Brewers to find him a suitable home.
Whitaker later shared on social media that a player suggested the team should keep the "rally turtle" if they won the game, adding a light-hearted twist to the situation. If the Brewers lost, she humorously hoped for consideration to send the tortoise back to her.
Official Statements & Responses
Murphy expressed his excitement about the tortoise during the interview, stating, “This is Bobby Jr., in honor of my friend Bobby Witt and his son, Bobby Jr.” The playful nature of the event reflects the Brewers' ongoing efforts to engage fans with unique and entertaining experiences.
Criticism & Opposition
While the introduction of the tortoise has been met with amusement, some fans and animal rights advocates have raised concerns regarding the appropriateness of using a live animal for entertainment purposes. The implications of such actions on animal welfare are worth considering, especially in a sports context.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is Bobby Jr., in honor of my friend Bobby Witt and his son, Bobby Jr. I didn’t want to pull out pancakes, so here we are. Now, we got pocket turtles.” — Pat Murphy, Manager, Milwaukee Brewers
- “How am I supposed to fly this home?” — Tricia Whitaker, Reporter, Apple TV
The Milwaukee Brewers' playful antics, from pocket pancakes to pocket tortoises, continue to capture the attention of fans, blending sports with light-hearted entertainment.
