Longtime Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow retiring after 37 seasons
Longtime Giants Broadcaster Mike Krukow Announces Retirement After 37 Seasons
Bharatmorningnews.com – Longtime Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow retiring from his beloved role in the broadcast booth, the veteran voice of San Francisco baseball announced Thursday that he will step down at the conclusion of the current season. His departure marks the end of an extraordinary 37-year chapter with the franchise, spanning both his playing days and decades behind the microphone.
Krukow’s journey with the Giants began in December 1982 when he was acquired through a trade. After completing his final season as a player in 1989, he transitioned into broadcasting, initially serving in a part-time capacity before eventually moving to a full-time position. His longevity in the role has made him one of the most recognizable faces in Giants history.
The Giants organization has been home to some of baseball’s most distinguished broadcasters since relocating from New York in 1958. Legends such as Russ Hodges, Al Michaels, Lon Simmons, Tim McCarver, and Jon Miller have all been honored with the Ford C. Frick Award from the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, recognizing their exceptional contributions to the sport through broadcasting.
A Deep Connection with the Giants Family
Throughout his extensive tenure, Krukow has cultivated a special bond with Giants supporters across generations. In a heartfelt statement released Thursday, he shared how meaningful this broadcasting position has been for both himself and his wife, Jennifer, who has stood by his side throughout their shared journey.
“Jennifer and I have been so blessed to be able to stay in the game for as long as we have and it’s really made it impossible to feel sorry for myself that my career is coming to an end,” he said. “We are bracing for the emotional hits we know we are going to feel in the next few weeks. Jennifer and I are wondering if it is even possible to let everyone know how deeply we love and respect our Giants family. Our time together has been a gift.”
“When Green Day asked, ‘I hope you’ve had the time of your lives,’ we certainly have. Thank you.”
The 74-year-old broadcaster has navigated a degenerative muscle condition that has progressively limited his ability to travel with the team over the past decade. According to The Athletic, Krukow has continued his broadcasting duties remotely alongside former Giants teammate and longtime broadcast partner Duane Kuiper since the 2020 season, maintaining his presence in the booth despite physical challenges.
Franchise Honors and Legacy
Giants president and CEO Larry Baer announced that the organization will host a special ceremony honoring Krukow at Oracle Park on September 27, allowing fans to celebrate his contributions in person. The event will provide an opportunity for the community to express their gratitude for decades of service.
“While we knew this day would eventually come, Mike Krukow stepping away from the broadcast booth is a deeply emotional moment for our Giants family,” Baer said in a statement. “On behalf of our extended Giants family, I want to express our profound gratitude for everything Kruk has given not only to this franchise, but to each of us personally. For decades, he has shared far more than his voice. He has been our spiritual leader.”
“Whether someone is sitting in the ballpark, watching from home, or listening on the radio halfway around the world, Kruk makes every Giants fan feel like they are part of something bigger a family,” Baer continued. “We often talk about what it means to be a Forever Giant. No one embodies that more completely than Kruk. His impact extends far beyond the broadcast booth. He’s been one of the great ambassadors for this franchise, and his passion, spirit, character and love for the Giants have shaped this organization for generations.”
As a player, Krukow pitched for 14 major league seasons across three franchises: the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies, and the Giants. The right-handed pitcher finished his playing career with a 124-117 record and a 3.90 ERA across 369 appearances, establishing himself as a reliable contributor before transitioning to his broadcasting role.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Mike Krukow’s retirement become effective? Krukow will officially retire at the conclusion of the current baseball season, with a special ceremony planned for September 27 at Oracle Park.
How long has Mike Krukow been with the Giants organization? He has been with the Giants for 37 seasons, beginning with his acquisition in December 1982 and continuing through his broadcasting career.
What health challenges has Krukow faced during his broadcasting career? The 74-year-old has dealt with a degenerative muscle condition that has limited his travel with the team over the past decade, leading to remote broadcasts since 2020.
Who has been Krukow’s broadcast partner in recent years? Former Giants teammate Duane Kuiper has been his broadcast partner, with both men calling games remotely since the 2020 season.
What is Krukow’s playing career record? Krukow pitched for 14 seasons across three teams, finishing with a 124-117 record and a 3.90 ERA in 369 appearances.