Giants’ Broadcaster Duane Kuiper Falls Short in Frick Award Bid

ORLANDO, Florida — Duane Kuiper, the longtime broadcaster for the San Francisco Giants, has once again missed out on the prestigious Ford C. Frick Award, which honors excellence in baseball broadcasting. The award, presented annually, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the sport. This year, the accolade went to Joe Buck, while Kuiper’s candidacy did not secure enough votes.

The announcement of the 2026 award recipient took place on Wednesday morning, amidst the ongoing MLB Winter Meetings. Other finalists included notable broadcasters such as Brian Anderson, Skip Caray, and Gary Cohen, among others. Kuiper’s supporters had hoped that this would be the year he finally received the honor, especially following a week filled with achievements for the Giants organization.

While Kuiper did not earn the Frick Award, the Giants celebrated several successes during the Winter Meetings. Former player Jeff Kent received election to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, a recognition that many believe will see him inducted as a Giant. Additionally, Matt Chisholm, the team’s vice president of media relations, was honored with the 2025 Robert O. Fishel Award for public relations excellence.

The Giants also recognized their clubhouse staff, with Brad Grems and Gavin Cuddie earning the Clubhouse Manager of the Year Award. Karen Sweeney, a long-serving member of the organization since 1989, received the Katy Feeney Leadership Award, which acknowledges outstanding female employees in baseball. In addition to these accolades, the Giants secured the fourth overall pick in the 2026 MLB Draft through a fortunate outcome in the draft lottery.

Buster Posey, the president of baseball operations for the Giants, expressed his admiration for Kuiper, stating, “He’s synonymous with Giants baseball.” Posey emphasized the unique storytelling ability of both Kuiper and his broadcasting partner, Mike Krukow, noting how their dynamic enhances the game experience for fans. “When you have a voice and a storyteller like Kuiper and Krukow, it allows you that ability to still take in the game and get enjoyment just from their relationship,” Posey added.

At 75 years old, Kuiper has been a prominent figure in baseball broadcasting since joining the Giants in 1986, following a 12-season career as a player, four of which were spent with the Giants. His experience and passion for the game have made him a beloved figure among fans. Posey acknowledged that while he did not have many opportunities to listen to Kuiper during his playing career, he appreciates the duo’s ability to commentate without being excessively critical of players. “That’s not an easy thing to do because sometimes we stink and you want to beat us up,” he said.

Despite the disappointment regarding the Frick Award, the Giants’ front office and fans remain hopeful for future recognition of Kuiper’s contributions to the sport. His long-standing dedication to baseball and the Giants has solidified his status as a cherished voice in the game, even if this year’s award eluded him once again.