San Francisco Giants Announce Bronze Statue of Legendary Kruk & Kuip Outside Oracle Park
The San Francisco Giants have officially announced one of the most heartfelt tributes in franchise history: a bronze statue of legendary broadcasting duo Mike Krukow and Duane Kuiper — affectionately known to generations of fans as “Kruk & Kuip” — will be unveiled outside Oracle Park. This gesture, welcomed with overwhelming joy by the Giants community, cements the pair’s legacy as not only the voices of the ballclub but also cultural icons in Bay Area sports.
For decades, Krukow and Kuiper have been more than broadcasters. They have been storytellers, comedians, and companions for fans through the highs and lows of Giants baseball. Their chemistry, wit, and genuine love for the game created an atmosphere that transcended the typical broadcast booth. Whether the Giants were competing for a World Series title or enduring rebuilding seasons, Kruk & Kuip found ways to make every pitch, every moment, and every quirky baseball oddity meaningful.
A Statue for Voices of a Generation
The announcement marks a rare honor in professional sports: broadcasters immortalized in bronze alongside players and coaches. Oracle Park, already home to statues of Giants legends like Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Juan Marichal, Gaylord Perry, and Orlando Cepeda, will now host a tribute to the men who carried the franchise’s spirit over the airwaves.
Larry Baer, the Giants’ president and CEO, emphasized the significance of this moment during the unveiling:
“Baseball is about connection. Kruk & Kuip have given fans not just information about the game, but joy, laughter, and comfort for decades. They are as much a part of our Giants family as the Hall of Fame players we’ve honored in statue form. This tribute recognizes their immeasurable impact on our city, our fans, and the sport itself.”
Kruk & Kuip: A Legacy of Storytelling
Mike Krukow, a former Giants pitcher turned broadcaster, and Duane Kuiper, a one-time infielder for both the Giants and Cleveland Indians, first teamed up in 1993. Over time, their bond grew into a legendary partnership, blending Kuiper’s smooth play-by-play delivery with Krukow’s colorful commentary. Together, they redefined what baseball broadcasting could feel like — less a lecture from the booth, more a conversation among friends.
Their catchphrases became fan favorites. From Kuiper’s iconic “It’s outta here!” on Giants home runs to Krukow’s enthusiastic “Grab some pine, meat!” after strikeouts, the duo built a lexicon of joy. They captured the poetry of baseball while never taking themselves too seriously, sprinkling humor and humility into every broadcast.
Even during tough seasons, when victories were scarce, fans tuned in as much for Kruk & Kuip’s banter as for the game itself. In many ways, they became the soundtrack of summer in the Bay Area.
The Fans’ Tribute
The announcement of the statue has been met with emotional responses across social media and among the Giants’ faithful. Fans recalled personal stories of listening to Kruk & Kuip while commuting, cooking dinner, or sitting with family members. For many, the duo served as a constant presence, weaving baseball into the fabric of everyday life.
“It’s hard to explain how much they mean to us,” said one lifelong Giants supporter. “You could be going through a rough patch, but hearing Kruk & Kuip joke about garlic fries or a squirrel on the field made things a little better. They’re family.”
The decision also reflects the modern recognition that sports culture isn’t shaped solely by athletes. Broadcasters, especially ones with enduring partnerships, create emotional bonds that carry across generations. By honoring Kruk & Kuip, the Giants acknowledge the profound role voices play in shaping team identity.
A Statue with Meaning
The bronze statue, scheduled to be unveiled during the upcoming season, will reportedly depict Krukow and Kuiper side by side in their signature broadcasting stance: headsets on, microphones ready, smiles wide. Positioned near Willie Mays Plaza, the monument will serve as a gathering spot for fans — a place to celebrate not only Giants baseball but also the voices that narrated its most unforgettable moments.
The choice of Oracle Park’s exterior also highlights the community aspect of the tribute. Just as Kruk & Kuip reached fans everywhere, their statue will stand outside the ballpark, accessible to all who pass by, whether they hold a game ticket or not.
A Career of Unmatched Impact
Both Krukow and Kuiper have faced challenges in recent years. Krukow, battling a degenerative muscle disease, has courageously continued to broadcast part-time, while Kuiper briefly stepped away due to personal family matters before returning to the booth. These struggles only deepened fans’ admiration, as both men demonstrated resilience and unwavering commitment to their craft.
By honoring them with a statue, the Giants are not just celebrating their past contributions but also acknowledging the perseverance and humanity they have displayed off the field.
More Than Baseball
Ultimately, the story of Kruk & Kuip is about more than baseball. It is about friendship, loyalty, and the power of shared experiences. Their voices united fans across generations, from those who remember Candlestick Park to younger supporters growing up at Oracle Park. They turned routine games into cherished memories and unforgettable moments into timeless treasures.
As the statue is unveiled, Giants fans will not just see two figures cast in bronze. They will see decades of laughter, excitement, and comfort. They will hear echoes of familiar phrases and feel the warmth of countless summer nights spent listening to the game.
For Kruk & Kuip, the honor is richly deserved. For the fans, it is a thank you a lasting reminder that while players may come and go, the voices that bring the game to life can become legends in their own right.