Childhood and Education Journey of Dusty Baker in Timeline

Discover the defining moments in the early life of Dusty Baker. From birth to education, explore key events.

Johnnie B. "Dusty" Baker Jr. is a former MLB outfielder and manager. As a player for 19 seasons, he is most recognized for his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Baker was a two-time All-Star, won two Silver Slugger Awards and a Gold Glove Award, and was the 1977 NLCS MVP. He appeared in three World Series and won the 1981 World Series. He also played for the Atlanta Braves, San Francisco Giants, and Oakland Athletics.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

June 15, 1949: Dusty Baker's Birth

On June 15, 1949, Johnnie B "Dusty" Baker Jr. was born. He would grow up to become a professional baseball outfielder and manager in Major League Baseball (MLB).

Others born on this day/year

1963: Family Move to Carmichael

In 1963, Dusty Baker's family moved to Carmichael, California, where his father worked at McClellan Air Force Base.

1968: Became a Giants Fan

In 1968, Dusty Baker became a fan of the San Francisco Giants due to the signing of Bobby Bonds.

1969: Dusty Baker joins the United States Marine Corps Reserve

In 1969, Dusty Baker became a member of the United States Marine Corps Reserve.

April 8, 1974: Hank Aaron's 715th Home Run

On April 8, 1974, Dusty Baker batted fifth in the lineup behind Hank Aaron when Aaron hit his 715th home run to pass Babe Ruth.

1975: Dusty Baker ends service in the United States Marine Corps Reserve

In 1975, Dusty Baker's service in the United States Marine Corps Reserve came to an end.

October 2, 1977: The First High Five

On October 2, 1977, Dusty Baker and teammate Glenn Burke are believed to have performed the first-ever high five at Dodger Stadium.

1986: Wore a Wristband

In his final season of 1986, Dusty Baker began wearing a wristband (featuring his face), which he has continued to do as a manager to help wipe perspiration off his forehead.

2001: Dusty Baker Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer

In 2001, Dusty Baker was diagnosed with prostate cancer during a routine check-up; his father had been diagnosed with the same disease eight years prior. Dusty had surgery in December of that year to remove his prostate.

2002: Dusty Baker's son rescued at the World Series

During the 2002 World Series, Dusty Baker's son, Darren Baker, was famously rescued from being run over at home plate by J.T. Snow while serving as a batboy.

2012: Dusty Baker Hospitalized

Near the end of the 2012 baseball season, Dusty Baker was hospitalized for both an irregular heartbeat and a mini-stroke.

2017: Darren Baker drafted by the Washington Nationals

In 2017, Dusty Baker's son, Darren Baker, was drafted in the 27th round of the MLB draft by the Washington Nationals, the team his father managed at the time; however, Darren chose to play college baseball instead.

2021: Darren Baker signs with the Washington Nationals

In 2021, Darren Baker was drafted by the Washington Nationals in the tenth round of the amateur draft, and this time he signed to join the organization.