Legendary Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow to receive honorary degree from Cal Poly
A legendary California sportscaster was set to receive an honorary doctorate from his San Luis Obispo-based alma mater this weekend.
Award-winning broadcaster and former professional baseball player Mike Krukow was one of two people scheduled to receive an honorary doctorate during Cal Poly’s Bailey College of Science and Mathematics ceremony on Sunday.
Honorary degrees are typically awarded to “individuals who have demonstrated excellence in areas that benefit CSU campuses, the state, nation, world and humanity,” a university news release said.
Krukow, now 74 years old, is a Cal Poly alum who still holds the school record for career earned run average at 1.94, and is tied for most shutouts in a season, according to the release.
After graduating, he went on to lead a successful major league career, playing for the Chicago Cubs, Philadelphia Phillies and San Francisco Giants, the release said.
In 1990, he launched his career as a beloved sports broadcaster for the Giants alongside former teammate Duane Kuiper — forming the iconic “Kruk and Kuip” duo. Krukow was named sportscaster of the year in California in 2015, 2017 and 2023 — and was inducted into the Cal Poly Athletics Hall of Fame in 1987.
“His generosity of spirit, commitment to mentoring others and ability to bring people together through sport and storytelling reflect the highest values of leadership, excellence and service,” Cal Poly’s graduation announcement said. “As a proud Cal Poly supporter, Mr. Krukow has elevated the visibility of the university through his professional excellence and frequently highlights his Mustang pride on a national stage.”
Krukow, who has been suffering a degenerative muscle disease for years, was not slated to appear at Sunday’s commencement — but spokesperson Matt Lazier said a video message from the famed broadcaster would air during the ceremony.
This story was originally published June 13, 2026 at 3:54 PM with the headline "Legendary Giants broadcaster Mike Krukow to receive honorary degree from Cal Poly."
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