The San Francisco Giants have a rich broadcasting history, filled with iconic voices that have called the most memorable moments in franchise history. Legendary names like Russ Hodges, Lon Simmons, and Jon Miller, among others, set the tone for what would become a tradition of excellent baseball commentary. However, no duo has captured the hearts of Giants fans quite like Duane Kuiper and Mike Krukow, known affectionately as “Kruk and Kuip.” For decades, they’ve been the voices behind some of the most unforgettable moments in Giants history.
One of the most memorable phrases in Giants broadcasting history is Krukow’s famous “Grab Some Pine, Meat.” This simple, yet catchy saying became an anthem for fans whenever an opposing batter struck out. Over the years, it’s become a part of the culture around Giants baseball, embodying Krukow’s fiery, yet humorous style that fans have come to love. Similarly, Kuiper’s iconic call “We are goin’ home” during walk-off moments has brought countless Giants fans to their feet, celebrating thrilling victories.
In the 2002 National League Championship Series, Krukow’s exuberant “We’re goin’!” after Kenny Lofton’s walk-off hit to send the Giants to the World Series is etched in the memories of fans. It wasn’t just a call but an emotional burst that encapsulated the excitement and passion of Giants fans after years of waiting to return to the Fall Classic. That moment remains one of the best examples of the duo’s ability to bring the energy of the ballpark directly into the homes of fans.
The 2010 postseason was full of these memorable moments, none bigger than Brian Wilson striking out Ryan Howard to send the Giants to their first World Series in San Francisco. Kuiper’s call during that tense at-bat and the eventual strikeout was electric, capturing the gravity of the moment. Krukow and Kuiper, along with the rest of the broadcasting team, perfectly mirrored the emotions of fans everywhere as the Giants began their magical run to the championship.
“Torture,” a phrase coined by Kuiper in 2010, defined that season of close games, heart-stopping moments, and nail-biting finishes. It was the perfect description for the Giants’ knack for making every game a thrilling, nerve-wracking affair. Fans embraced the term, and it became a part of the team’s identity. “Torture” became a rallying cry, with fans wearing shirts and holding signs bearing the word, signifying their shared experience of every tense moment.
Finally, Kuiper’s call of the final out of the 2010 World Series will go down as one of the greatest in Giants history. His words, “And that’s it! The Giants are world champions for the first time in 52 years,” sent a wave of joy through Giants fans who had been waiting their entire lives for that moment. The way Kuiper and Krukow captured the historic nature of that win was a testament to their talent and deep connection to the fanbase, ensuring that their calls will live on in Giants lore forever.
