Two reasons for large jets having auto brakes for main wheels during retraction.
1. Very high centrifugal forces fighting retraction mechanism with wheels revolving at up to 180 kts. peripheral speed.
2. If there is a piece of tyre tread coming adrift you don't want it flailing around the landing gear bay causing damage.
If there is a problem with anti skid or one or more brakes are de-activated (ref. MEL) then the gear will be left down for about one minute after take off to allow the wheels to stop turning before retraction.