Congratulations to Duane Kuiper on 2026 Ford C. Frick Award Nomination
The San Francisco Giants and the entire baseball community are celebrating one of the game’s most respected voices. Longtime broadcaster and former Major League infielder Duane Kuiper has been officially nominated for the 2026 Ford C. Frick Award, one of the highest honors in baseball broadcasting.
Kuiper, affectionately known as “Kuip” to fans, has been the soundtrack of Giants baseball for decades, pairing his deep knowledge of the game with his signature humor and warmth. Whether delivering a sharp call of a dramatic home run or sharing one of his many colorful anecdotes, Kuiper has become synonymous with the fabric of Bay Area baseball.
A Cleveland Indians second baseman from 1974 to 1982 and a Giant from 1982 to 1985, Kuiper transitioned seamlessly into broadcasting after his playing days. Alongside his longtime partner and friend Mike Krukow, the duo of “Kruk and Kuip” has built a legacy that extends far beyond the ballpark, bringing joy and insight to generations of fans.
The Ford C. Frick Award, presented annually by the National Baseball Hall of Fame, recognizes excellence in baseball broadcasting. Nominees are evaluated on their broadcasting careers, longevity, and their impact on the game’s culture. Winners are enshrined in Cooperstown, joining an elite fraternity of legendary voices.
For Giants fans, Kuiper’s nomination is more than just a professional milestone it’s a tribute to his unwavering commitment to the game, the city, and the people who have followed his every call. His “high drive, left field, outta here!” home run calls will forever be etched into the memories of Giants Nation.
The recipient of the 2026 Ford C. Frick Award will be announced later this year. But for now, congratulations are in order for Duane Kuiper—a true baseball treasure whose voice has defined an era.