Mike Krukow Ended His 37-Year Giants Broadcasting Career

The former pitcher retired after a final ceremony following the San Francisco Giants' last home game of the season.

Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Baseball

Mike Krukow Ended His 37-Year Giants Broadcasting Career

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San Francisco Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow concluded his 37-year career with the franchise during a postgame ceremony at the final home game of the season on Sunday. His retirement follows a battle with a chronic medical condition that hindered his ability to continue in the broadcast booth.

Why it matters

Krukow, a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for 14 seasons, served as a fixture of the Giants organization since his transition to the broadcast team. His departure marks the end of an era for San Francisco listeners and fans who became accustomed to his long-standing presence during game coverage.

Krukow spent 37 years as a color commentator, with the Giants recording 97 losses in his final 2026 season. The team lost their final home game 5-1 in a 10-inning contest attended by over 40,000 fans.

The players

Mike Krukow

He is a former Major League Baseball pitcher who played for 14 seasons before becoming a long-time color commentator for the San Francisco Giants.

Bruce Jenkins

He is a sports journalist who is currently collaborating on a book with Mike Krukow.

San Francisco Giants

They are a Major League Baseball franchise based in San Francisco that finished their 2026 season with 97 losses.

The details

During the final home game, Krukow appeared on the field in a motorized chair to participate in a tribute ceremony. Additionally, three of his five children performed the national anthem for the crowd.

Timeline

  1. 1958: The year the Giants arrived from New York.

  2. September 27, 2026: The final home game and retirement ceremony took place.

  3. September 28, 2026: Krukow's final KNBR radio segment scheduled.

Season Trajectory

Krukow's retirement closes a significant chapter for the franchise, which struggled during the 2026 season with 97 total losses. This transition necessitates a shift in the broadcasting team's identity as the organization looks toward future seasons.

Fans will see immediate changes in the broadcast booth rotation for the upcoming season following the departure of the long-time color commentator. Additionally, listeners should tune in to KNBR on Monday morning for his final planned radio appearance.

The takeaway

Krukow's career highlights the deep connection between long-serving broadcasters and their local fanbases throughout decades of team history. Fans looking to commemorate his career can reflect on his dual legacy as both a former Major League pitcher and a voice of the organization.

Further reading

For more on local team history and media coverage, visit the San Francisco section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by San Francisco Chronicle.

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