Giants color commentator Mike Krukow was named one of eight finalists for the 2017 Ford C. Frick Award on Monday.
The Baseball Hall of Fame recognizes the award as someone who symbolizes "commitment to excellence, quality of broadcasting abilities, reverence within the game, popularity with fans, and recognition by peers." Krukow was in awe Monday of the honor as he paid homage to his Giants partners.
"I’m kind of stunned,” Krukow told the San Francisco Chronicle. “I’m the fourth-best guy on our broadcast team and here I am getting nominated for the Hall of Fame. It’s kind of unbelievable, honestly.”
This is not Krukow's first year on the ballot. He was nominated for the award in 2013, along with television partner Duane Kuiper. Neither had seen their names on the list since, until Krukow on Monday.
“I’m overwhelmed,” Krukow said. “I thought when Kuip was nominated the last time, I thought it would be a progression and he would be nominated again and again."
Another one of Krukow's partners, Jon Miller, won the award in 2010. Giants broadcasters Russ Hodges (1980) and Lon Simmons (2004) were also honored with the award.
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The 64-year-old Krukow has spent 26 years as a Giants broadcaster. His 14-year career as a major league pitcher ended with the Giants after the 1989 season. Krukow spent seven seasons with the Giants, and was named and All-Star with the team in 1986.
The other seven finalists for the award are Gary Cohen, Jacques Doucet, Ken Harrelson, Pat Hughes, Ned Martin and Dewayne Staats. The winner will be crowned on Dec. 7 during the Baseball Winter Meetings.
