Duane Kuiper – San Francisco Giants Legend Celebrates 40 Years with the Organization
Duane Kuiper has become nearly as synonymous with the San Francisco Giants as the team’s iconic orange and black colors. As a former second baseman for both the Cleveland Indians and San Francisco Giants, Kuiper transformed his on-field experience into a remarkable broadcasting career. Kuiper hung up his cleats after the 1985 season and has since established himself as one of baseball’s most beloved announcers. He has been the voice of Giants baseball for decades.
The Wisconsin native recently made headlines when he and his longtime broadcast partners Mike Krukow, Jon Miller, and Dave Flemming all signed contract extensions with the organization. Giants fans collectively breathed a sigh of relief knowing Kuiper’s distinctive home run call of “It… is… OUTTA HERE!” would continue echoing through their televisions and radios. His partnership with former pitcher Mike Krukow has created one of the most respected broadcasting duos in all of baseball, blending analytical insight with genuine passion for the game.
Contents
Early Life and Career
Duane Kuiper’s journey from a Wisconsin dairy farm to the Major Leagues and eventually the broadcast booth showcases his deep connection to baseball that began in his youth.
Birth and Family Background
Duane Eugene Kuiper was born on June 19, 1950, in Racine, Wisconsin. Unlike many professional athletes who grew up in urban environments, Kuiper’s childhood unfolded on his family’s dairy farm. This rural upbringing instilled in him the value of hard work and dedication from an early age.
The daily chores and responsibilities of farm life shaped Kuiper’s character. Rising before dawn to handle farm duties before school helped develop the discipline that would later serve him well in his professional career.
His midwestern roots remained an important part of his identity throughout his life, often referenced in his broadcasting career with the Giants.
Baseball Beginnings
Kuiper’s baseball journey started at Jerome I. Case High School in Racine, where he displayed the natural talent that would eventually take him to the majors. After high school, he continued his development at Indian Hills Community College, honing his skills as a second baseman.
His professional career began when he was drafted by the Cleveland Indians. Kuiper made his Major League debut on September 9, 1974, at the age of 24. This marked the beginning of an 11-season MLB career split between two teams: the Cleveland Indians and the San Francisco Giants.
Known primarily as a defensive specialist at second base, Kuiper’s baseball IQ and fundamentally sound play would become hallmarks of his time in the majors.
Playing Career
Duane Kuiper built a solid major league career spanning 12 seasons, primarily as a second baseman known for his defensive skills. His journey through professional baseball included memorable stints with two franchises and eventually led to his renowned broadcasting career.
Major League Baseball
Kuiper was drafted by the Cleveland Indians in the first round (21st overall) of the 1972 draft after attending Southern Illinois University. He made his major league debut on September 9, 1974, with Cleveland.
During his MLB career, Kuiper was known primarily as a contact hitter with excellent defensive skills at second base. He finished with a .271 career batting average, showcasing his ability to put the ball in play consistently.
One of the most notable aspects of Kuiper’s playing career is that he hit just one home run in 3,754 career at-bats. This unique statistical anomaly has become part of baseball lore and something Kuiper himself often jokes about in his broadcasting career.
San Francisco Giants and Cleveland Indians
Kuiper spent the first eight seasons of his career (1974-1981) with the Cleveland Indians, where he established himself as a reliable second baseman. His steady play and defensive skills made him a fan favorite in Cleveland.
In 1982, Kuiper joined the San Francisco Giants, where he would finish his playing career. He played four seasons with the Giants before retiring after the 1985 season.
His time with the Giants, though shorter than his Cleveland tenure, created lasting connections that would later influence his broadcasting career. Kuiper’s knowledge of the organization and its history would prove valuable in his post-playing endeavors.
Career Statistics:
| Team | Years | Games | Batting Avg | HR | RBI |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland | 1974-1981 | 843 | .283 | 1 | 201 |
| San Francisco | 1982-1985 | 345 | .242 | 0 | 62 |
| Career | 1974-1985 | 1,188 | .271 | 1 | 263 |
Post-Playing Career
After retiring as a player, Kuiper quickly found his second calling in broadcasting. He joined the Giants’ broadcast team in 1987, beginning what would become a legendary announcing career.
Paired with former pitcher Mike Krukow, Kuiper formed one half of the beloved “Kruk and Kuip” broadcasting duo that has become synonymous with Giants baseball. Their chemistry and baseball knowledge have made them fan favorites for decades.
Kuiper’s distinctive home run call—”He hits it high… hits it deep… it is… OUTTA HERE!”—has become iconic in baseball broadcasting. His voice has narrated countless memorable moments in Giants history, including their World Series championships in 2010, 2012, and 2014.
In recognition of his broadcasting excellence, Kuiper has received seven Emmy Awards for his work covering Giants games.
Broadcasting Career
After hanging up his cleats as a player, Duane Kuiper found his true calling in the broadcast booth, where he has become one of baseball’s most distinctive voices. His partnership with Mike Krukow has created the beloved “Kruk and Kuip” duo that Giants fans have embraced for decades.
Transition to Broadcasting
Kuiper began his broadcasting journey with the San Francisco Giants in 1986, embarking on what would become a legendary second career. The transition from player to broadcaster came naturally to the former infielder, who brought his deep understanding of the game to the microphone.
After a brief departure, Kuiper returned and has remained a fixture of Giants broadcasts for 36 years. His distinctive play-by-play style quickly earned him recognition throughout baseball circles.
A 13-time Emmy award winner, Kuiper has refined his craft over four decades. He’ll begin his 41st season as a Major League announcer in 2025, marking his 32nd consecutive year in the Giants broadcast booth.
Partnership with Mike Krukow
The legendary “Kruk and Kuip” tandem formed when former pitcher Mike Krukow joined Kuiper in the booth. Their chemistry was immediate and lasting, creating one of baseball’s most popular broadcasting duos.
Their friendship extends beyond the booth, with the pair developing a shorthand and repartee that feels like listening to old friends discuss baseball. Their catchphrases and good-natured banter have become as much a part of Giants baseball as the crack of the bat.
Working primarily on NBC Sports Bay Area television broadcasts and occasionally on KNBR radio, the duo has cultivated a following that transcends generations of Giants fans. Their approach balances detailed analysis with an accessible, conversational style that welcomes both diehards and casual viewers.
Notable Moments in Broadcasting
Kuiper’s home run calls—particularly his enthusiastic “OUTTA HERE!”—have become his signature broadcasting moment. His call of Barry Bonds’ record-breaking 756th home run stands as one of baseball’s most memorable broadcast moments.
During the Giants’ championship runs in 2010, 2012, and 2014, Kuiper’s voice provided the soundtrack to some of the franchise’s greatest triumphs. His emotional calls during the team’s World Series victories captured the significance of those historic achievements.
Kuiper’s broadcasting booth has expanded beyond just Krukow to include talents like Jon Miller and Dave Flemming, creating one of baseball’s most respected announcing teams. Together with his broadcast partners, Kuiper has created a distinctive style that perfectly captures the rhythm and drama of baseball.
Personal Life
Duane Kuiper’s life beyond the broadcast booth has been shaped by deep family connections, personal challenges, and his midwestern roots. His private life reflects the same warmth and authenticity that fans have come to appreciate in his broadcasting career.
Family and Relationships
Duane Kuiper experienced profound personal tragedy when his wife of 36 years, Michelle Kuiper, passed away on February 20, 2022 at the age of 64. The loss deeply affected the beloved Giants broadcaster, who took time away from his professional duties to grieve.
When Kuiper eventually returned to the airwaves on KNBR, he expressed gratitude for the support he received during this difficult period. His return demonstrated the resilience that has characterized his approach to life’s challenges.
Kuiper grew up on a 300-acre farm, which helped shape his down-to-earth personality that resonates with listeners. This background provides context for the genuine, unpretentious style that has made him a fan favorite in the Bay Area.
His family has remained a cornerstone of his identity throughout his career as both a player and broadcaster. The support system they provided has been crucial to his success both on and off the air.
Health and Public Support
Duane Kuiper’s journey with health challenges has brought the Giants community together in remarkable ways. His openness about medical struggles has strengthened his connection with fans, who have responded with overwhelming support during difficult times.
Battling Health Issues
In June 2021, Kuiper announced he would take time away from broadcasting after being diagnosed with a medical condition requiring immediate chemotherapy treatment. The beloved announcer stepped back from the booth to focus on his health, creating a notable absence in Giants broadcasts.
Kuiper has faced multiple health challenges over the years. While he’s been private about specific details, his chemotherapy treatments became public knowledge when he needed to adjust his broadcasting schedule.
He also battles Inclusion Body Myositis, a progressive muscle condition that has affected his mobility and stamina over time. Despite these obstacles, Kuiper has shown remarkable resilience in returning to the broadcast booth whenever possible.
Community and Fan Support
The response to Kuiper’s health challenges has been nothing short of extraordinary. Fans, players, and fellow broadcasters rallied around him with messages of encouragement and support.
For many Giants supporters, Kuiper is more than a broadcaster – he’s “part of the family” who has been invited into their homes for nearly 162 games per season.
The outpouring extended beyond the Giants organization. Kuiper received support from former Giants players, members of rival teams including the Athletics, and colleagues throughout baseball.
In 2022, Kuiper faced personal tragedy with the death of his wife of 36 years in February. True to form, he returned to his broadcasting duties ahead of Opening Day, further demonstrating his commitment to the Giants and their fans.
Impact and Legacy
Duane Kuiper has left an indelible mark on the San Francisco Giants organization that extends far beyond his playing days. His voice has become synonymous with Giants baseball, creating moments that resonate with generations of fans.
Influence on San Francisco Giants Community
Kuiper’s influence on the Giants community is profound. As a broadcaster for the Giants, he has been the narrative voice guiding fans through the team’s highest peaks and lowest valleys. His partnership with Mike Krukow has created the iconic “Kruk and Kuip” duo that has become a fixture in Bay Area sports culture.
The famous “It is outta here!” home run call has transcended baseball, becoming part of San Francisco’s cultural lexicon. During the Giants’ championship runs in 2010, 2012, and 2014, Kuiper’s calls provided the soundtrack to historic moments.
His contributions to community initiatives have strengthened the bond between the team and its supporters. Kuiper regularly participates in Giants Community Fund events, helping raise millions for youth baseball programs in the Bay Area.
Relationship with Fans
Kuiper has cultivated a unique relationship with Giants fans built on authenticity and accessibility. Despite being nominated for the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award, he maintains a humble approach to broadcasting that resonates with everyday fans.
His candid style combines honest analysis with the perspective of someone who truly loves the game. This approach has earned him trust from multiple generations of Giants supporters.
Kuiper consistently acknowledges the “Giants family” – the loyal fanbase that fills Oracle Park. He’s known for taking time to interact with fans before games, signing autographs and sharing stories from his playing days.
During difficult seasons, Kuiper’s steady presence provides comfort to the fanbase. His ability to find joy in the game, regardless of the team’s record, reminds fans why they fell in love with baseball.
Contribution to Major League Baseball
Kuiper’s broadcasting career has contributed significantly to MLB’s narrative traditions. His work alongside Krukow has been recognized as among the best in baseball, with the pair being finalists for the Ford C. Frick Award multiple times.
As a former player turned broadcaster, Kuiper brings unique insights to the booth. His transition from Cleveland Indians second baseman to Giants broadcaster created a blueprint for players looking to remain in baseball after their playing careers.
During national broadcasts, Kuiper has represented San Francisco with distinction. His calls of significant moments, like Barry Bonds’ record-breaking home runs, are preserved in baseball’s historical record.
The longevity of his broadcasting career speaks to his excellence. While many announcers come and go, Kuiper’s voice has been a constant in MLB for decades, bridging eras of baseball and connecting generations of fans.
Retirement and Farewell
Recent internet rumors about Duane Kuiper’s retirement from broadcasting have been firmly debunked. Mike Krukow, Kuiper’s longtime broadcasting partner, blasted these reports as “BS.”
Both Kuiper, 73, and Krukow, 71, have made it clear they intend to continue their broadcasting careers with the San Francisco Giants for as long as possible. The legendary duo has expressed no desire to step away from the microphone anytime soon.
The misleading retirement story began circulating online in early 2025, causing momentary concern among Giants fans. However, KNBR quickly clarified that no such retirement plans exist.
Kuiper’s broadcasting career with the Giants has spanned decades since his playing days ended. His family, including his wife, has been supportive throughout his lengthy tenure in the broadcast booth.
Kuiper’s Broadcasting Milestones:
- Years with Giants: 30+ (as of 2025)
- Famous home run calls: 2,000+
- “It is outta here!” catchphrase: Iconic status
- Emmy Awards: Multiple wins
The beloved announcer has balanced his broadcasting career with family life, often mentioning his wife during broadcasts. His warm, familiar voice has become synonymous with Giants baseball for generations of fans.
