"Dusty" Baker Jr. is a celebrated figure in American baseball, having enjoyed a 19-season career as an outfielder with iconic teams such as the Atlanta Braves, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and Oakland Athletics. His time with the Dodgers was particularly illustrious, marked by two All-Star selections, two Silver Slugger Awards, a Gold Glove Award, and a historic win as the first-ever National League Championship Series MVP in 1977. He was also instrumental in the Dodgers' 1981 World Series victory and made two additional World Series appearances. Following his playing career, Baker transitioned seamlessly into managing, becoming a highly respected figure within the MLB.
1908: Cubs' Last Postseason Series Victory Before 2003
Before 2003, the Chicago Cubs' last postseason series victory dated back to the 1908 World Series.
June 15, 1949: Birth of Dusty Baker
Johnnie B "Dusty" Baker Jr. was born on June 15, 1949.
1963: Dusty Baker's Family Relocates to Sacramento
Dusty Baker's family moved to Sacramento, California in 1963.
1967: Dusty Baker Drafted by the Atlanta Braves
Dusty Baker was drafted by the Atlanta Braves in the 1967 amateur draft.
1967: Dusty Baker Begins Professional Baseball Career, Serves in Marine Corps Reserve
Dusty Baker embarked on his professional baseball journey, playing his first games in the Texas League in 1967. That same year, he also began serving in the Marine Corps Reserve.
September 7, 1968: Dusty Baker Makes MLB Debut
Dusty Baker made his Major League Baseball debut on September 7, 1968, against the Houston Astros.
1968: Bobby Bonds' Signing Influences Dusty Baker's Fandom
The signing of Bobby Bonds to the San Francisco Giants in 1968 made Dusty Baker a fan of the team.
1969: Baker Joins Marine Corps Reserve
Dusty Baker joined the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1969.
1970: Dusty Baker Excels in Triple-A
Dusty Baker showcased his skills in Triple-A with the Richmond Braves, batting over .300 in 1970.
1970: Sparky Anderson's 100-Win Season
Sparky Anderson, in 1970, was a previous example of a manager achieving 100 wins in a rookie season before Dusty Baker.
1971: Dusty Baker's Strong Performance in Triple-A Continues
Dusty Baker continued to excel in Triple-A, batting over .300 for the Richmond Braves in 1971.
1972: Dusty Baker's Breakout Season
Dusty Baker had a breakout season in 1972, playing in 127 games and batting .321 for the Atlanta Braves.
April 8, 1974: Dusty Baker Witnesses Hank Aaron's Historic Home Run
Dusty Baker was on deck when Hank Aaron hit his 715th home run, surpassing Babe Ruth's record, on April 8, 1974.
November 17, 1975: Dusty Baker Traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers
Dusty Baker was traded to the Los Angeles Dodgers on November 17, 1975.
1975: Baker Completes Marine Corps Reserve Service
Dusty Baker completed his service with the United States Marine Corps Reserve in 1975.
1976: Dusty Baker Joins the Los Angeles Dodgers
Dusty Baker's time with the Los Angeles Dodgers began in 1976.
October 2, 1977: Dusty Baker's Potential Role in the First High Five
On October 2, 1977, Dusty Baker is believed to have participated in the first-ever high five with teammate Glenn Burke at Dodger Stadium. However, this claim is disputed.
1977: First Postseason Appearance and NLCS MVP
In 1977, Dusty Baker experienced his first postseason with the Dodgers, culminating in a World Series appearance against the New York Yankees. He played a crucial role in the NLCS, earning the series MVP award.
1977: Dusty Baker Wins NLCS MVP
In 1977, Dusty Baker was awarded the National League Championship Series Most Valuable Player Award.
1978: Dodgers' Back-to-Back Pennants and World Series Rematch
The Dodgers and Phillies met again in the 1978 NLCS, resulting in another Dodgers victory. Baker and the Dodgers faced the Yankees in the World Series for the second year in a row, ultimately losing the series.
1979: Solid Performance and Improved Batting Average
Dusty Baker maintained a solid batting average in 1979, hitting .274 for the season.
1980: Breakthrough Season and Silver Slugger Award
Baker's performance significantly improved in 1980 as he achieved a career-high batting average and earned his first Silver Slugger Award.
1981: Dusty Baker Wins World Series with the Dodgers
Dusty Baker was a member of the 1981 Los Angeles Dodgers team that won the World Series.
1981: Baker's First World Series Win as a Player
Dusty Baker won his first World Series title in 1981 as a player.
1981: First All-Star Selection and World Series Championship
In 1981, Baker was selected for his first All-Star game and played a key role in the Dodgers' World Series victory. He also earned a Silver Slugger and a Gold Glove award that year.
1981: Historic Playoff Collapse for Baker's Reds
The 1981 National League Division Series saw the Cincinnati Reds, under Dusty Baker's leadership, become the second team in NLDS history to lose a best-of-five series after leading 2-0. They lost to the San Francisco Giants in a heartbreaking Game 5, marking a historic playoff collapse.
1983: Final All-Star Appearance and End of Dodgers Tenure
Baker was selected for his second All-Star game in 1983 and continued to be a strong contributor to the Dodgers. Notably, this marked his last season with the team.
1984: Joining the San Francisco Giants
After becoming a free agent, Baker joined the San Francisco Giants for the 1984 season.
March 24, 1985: Trade to the Oakland Athletics
On March 24, 1985, Baker was traded to the Oakland Athletics, where he continued his career playing both outfield and first base.
October 4, 1986: Final Game in Major League Baseball
On October 4, 1986, Dusty Baker played his final game in Major League Baseball against the Kansas City Royals, marking the end of his impressive career.
1986: Toothpicks and Wristbands
Throughout his career, Baker was known for his love of toothpicks. He claimed they were a good source of protein. Baker also began wearing his signature wristband in 1986 to wipe sweat.
April 6, 1987: Call to Advocacy and Return to Baseball
Following controversial remarks by Dodgers general manager Al Campanis, Baker was urged by Hank Aaron, Joe Morgan, and Frank Robinson to advocate for minority players seeking post-playing careers. This led to his return to baseball in a coaching role.
1987: Retirement from Playing Career
Following an offer to play in Triple-A, Baker opted for free agency and ultimately decided to retire from his playing career.
1988: First Coaching Role with the Giants
Dusty Baker's coaching career began in 1988 as a first base coach for the San Francisco Giants.
1989: Transition to Hitting Coach
From 1989 to 1992, Baker served as the hitting coach for the San Francisco Giants.
1989: Giants' Last Postseason Series Victory
In 2002, the Giants achieved their first postseason series victory since 1989.
1990: Reds Managerial Hiring Trends
Before Dusty Baker's hiring in 2007, the Cincinnati Reds had a history of hiring managers with prior ties to the organization, a trend that ended in 1990.
December 16, 1992: Dusty Baker Hired as Giants Manager
On December 16, 1992, Dusty Baker was hired to manage the San Francisco Giants, becoming the seventh black manager in Major League Baseball history.
1992: Cito Gaston's First World Series Win
Cito Gaston became the first African-American manager to win a World Series in 1992.
1992: Cito Gaston's World Series Victories
Cito Gaston, managing the Toronto Blue Jays, achieved World Series victories in 1992 and 1993.
1992: Managerial Debut in the Arizona Fall League
In 1992, Baker furthered his coaching experience by managing the Scottsdale Scorpions in the Arizona Fall League.
1992: Pirates End Playoff Drought Against Reds
The Pittsburgh Pirates, facing Dusty Baker's Cincinnati Reds in the 2013 Wild Card game, secured a 6-2 victory, marking their first postseason appearance since 1992.
April 6, 1993: Baker's First and 2,000th Wins Feature Father-Son Duo
A notable coincidence connects Dusty Baker's first and 2,000th wins as a manager. Both games involved a father-son duo named Peña. On April 6, 1993, Gerónimo Peña batted leadoff for the St. Louis Cardinals against Baker's San Francisco Giants in Baker's managerial debut. Years later, Jeremy Peña, Gerónimo's son, started as the shortstop for the Houston Astros in Baker's 2,000th win.
1993: Cito Gaston's Second Consecutive World Series Win
Cito Gaston led the Toronto Blue Jays to their second consecutive World Series win in 1993.
1993: Cito Gaston's Second Consecutive World Series Win
Cito Gaston won his second consecutive World Series title in 1993.
1993: Dusty Baker Begins Managerial Career with Giants
Dusty Baker's managerial career began in 1993 with the San Francisco Giants.
1995: Introduction of the Wild Card
The Wild Card was instituted in both leagues in 1995, changing the playoff qualification process.
1995: Astros Sweep ALCS
In 1995, the Houston Astros swept their opponents in both the ALDS and ALCS under the leadership of Dusty Baker.
1995: Start of the Wild Card Era
1995 marked the beginning of the Wild Card era in Major League Baseball, a significant change in playoff format.
1997: Giants Win Division Title
Dusty Baker led the Giants to win the division title in 1997, earning him Manager of the Year honors.
1998: Giants Lose Wild Card Tie-Breaker
The Giants, aiming for a Wild Card spot, lost a tie-breaker game in 1998, narrowly missing the playoffs.
1999: Baker Faces IRS Issues
Dusty Baker encountered difficulties with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) related to tax shelter investments, resulting in wage garnishment during his time managing the Giants. He received financial support from then-Giants owner Peter Magowan to navigate these challenges.
2000: Giants' Second Division Title Under Baker
The Giants, under Dusty Baker's leadership, clinched another division title in 2000.
2001: Baker Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer
Dusty Baker received a diagnosis of prostate cancer in 2001 during a routine check-up, leading to surgery in December of that year.
November 15, 2002: Dusty Baker Hired as Cubs Manager
On November 15, 2002, Dusty Baker was appointed as the manager of the Chicago Cubs, replacing Bruce Kimm.
2002: Baker's Son, Darren, Involved in World Series Incident
During the 2002 World Series, Dusty Baker's son, Darren, who was serving as a batboy, was narrowly saved from being run over at home plate by J.T. Snow.
2002: Baker's IRS Troubles Become Public
Dusty Baker's ongoing issues with the IRS were brought to light by media reports in late 2002, revealing the financial strain and legal complexities he faced.
2002: Dusty Baker's Tenure as Giants Manager Ends
In 2002, Dusty Baker's time as manager of the San Francisco Giants came to an end.
2002: Kerry Wood's Performance Before Baker
In 2002, before Dusty Baker became his manager, Kerry Wood pitched fewer innings compared to his 2003 season under Baker.
2002: Giants' Wild Card Clinch and Playoff Run
The Giants secured the Wild Card in 2002, marking their first postseason appearance since 1989. They advanced to the World Series but lost to the Anaheim Angels in a closely contested seven-game series.
2003: Baker Returns to League Championship Series
The Houston Astros' appearance in the 2020 ALCS marked the first time since 2003 that a team managed by Dusty Baker had reached the League Championship Series.
2003: Reds Cycle Through Managers
The Cincinnati Reds had employed five different managers between 2003 and the time Dusty Baker was hired in late 2007.
2003: Dusty Baker's Impact on the Cubs and the Steve Bartman Incident
In 2003, Dusty Baker led the Cubs to their first division title in fourteen years and their first postseason series victory since the 1908 World Series. However, their season ended in disappointment during the NLCS against the Florida Marlins, marred by the infamous Steve Bartman foul ball incident in Game 6.
2003: Wood Pitches a Full Season Under Baker
In 2003, Kerry Wood pitched a full season under Dusty Baker's management, throwing 211 innings, slightly more than his 2002 total. This was the only full season Wood would pitch under Baker's leadership.
2003: Dusty Baker Becomes Manager of the Chicago Cubs
Dusty Baker took on the role of manager for the Chicago Cubs in 2003.
2004: Dusty Baker's Cubs Miss Playoffs Amidst Criticism
In 2004, Dusty Baker's Chicago Cubs missed the playoffs after a late-season slump. They lost six of their last eight games, ending their season three games shy of a wild card spot. This season also saw criticism from analyst Steve Stone, who accused Baker's players of harassing him, a claim Baker dismissed. On a more positive note, August 30th marked Baker's 1,000th win as a manager, achieved in his 1,848th game.
2005: Injuries Plague the Cubs Under Baker
The 2005 season saw the Cubs battling injuries, notably to pitchers Mark Prior and Kerry Wood, resulting in a 79-83 record, their first losing season in three years.
2006: Cubs Part Ways with Dusty Baker
Following a disappointing 2006 season, the Chicago Cubs decided not to renew Dusty Baker's contract. Baker officially announced his departure in early October, marking the end of his tenure with the team. He finished with a regular season record of 322 wins and 326 losses and a postseason record of six wins and six losses.
2006: Baker Begins Postseason Analyst Role with ESPN
Dusty Baker transitioned to a career in broadcasting in 2006, joining ESPN as a postseason analyst.
2006: Dusty Baker's Time with the Cubs Ends
Dusty Baker's time as manager of the Chicago Cubs concluded in 2006.
2006: Baker's Cubs Struggle and His Managerial Style is Questioned
The Cubs continued to decline in 2006, finishing last in the National League with a 66-96 record. Baker faced increasing scrutiny for his traditionalist managerial style and his alleged tendency to overuse pitchers, particularly Wood and Prior, who both suffered serious arm injuries. Some critics attributed these injuries to their heavy workload under Baker, citing their high pitch counts. However, others argue that other factors were at play and that Wood himself has defended Baker's management.
October 13, 2007: Baker Makes History as Reds Manager
On October 13, 2007, Dusty Baker was appointed as the manager of the Cincinnati Reds, becoming the first black manager in the team's history. He replaced interim manager Pete Mackanin. This hiring came after the Reds fired Jerry Narron following another losing season. Baker, the fifth Reds manager since 2003, was the first hired with no prior ties to the organization since 1990.
2007: Baker Continues as Analyst with ESPN
Dusty Baker continued his role as an analyst with ESPN for the 2007 MLB season.
2007: Lou Piniella Takes the Helm in Chicago
The Cubs hired Lou Piniella to replace Dusty Baker as manager for the 2007 season.
2008: Dusty Baker Hired as Cincinnati Reds Manager
Dusty Baker started his tenure as manager of the Cincinnati Reds in 2008.
2008: Reds Finish Fifth in NL Central
Dusty Baker's first season with the Cincinnati Reds resulted in a 74-88 record, placing them fifth in the National League Central.
2009: Reds Improve Slightly Under Baker
In 2009, the Cincinnati Reds, led by Dusty Baker, finished the season with a 78-84 record, securing fourth place in the NL Central, showing a slight improvement from the previous year.
September 28, 2010: Reds Celebrate Division Title After 15 Years
The Cincinnati Reds, under Dusty Baker's leadership, secured the National League Central title on September 28, 2010. This victory marked their first playoff appearance in 15 years. The Reds, however, were swept by the Philadelphia Phillies in the NLDS.
October 4, 2010: Baker Earns Contract Extension with the Reds
Following the Reds' successful 2010 season, Dusty Baker signed a two-year contract extension with the team on October 4, 2010.
2010: Bruce Bochy's First World Series Title with the Giants
Bruce Bochy led the San Francisco Giants to their first World Series title in 2010.
2010: Dusty Baker Inducted into Sac-Joaquin Section's Hall of Fame
Dusty Baker was recognized for his athletic achievements at Del Campo High School with induction into the Sac-Joaquin Section's Hall of Fame in 2010.
September 2012: Baker's Health Scare and Reds' Triumph
In September 2012, Dusty Baker was hospitalized in Chicago due to an irregular heartbeat, a result of a long-standing heart condition. Despite his absence, the Reds clinched the 2012 National League Central division title, marking their second in three years and Baker's fifth as a manager.
October 15, 2012: Baker Extends Stay with the Reds
Dusty Baker signed a two-year contract extension with the Cincinnati Reds on October 15, 2012, following their successful season.
2012: Bruce Bochy's Second World Series Title
Bruce Bochy achieved his second World Series title as manager of the San Francisco Giants in 2012.
2012: Baker Hospitalized for Heart and Health Issues
Towards the end of the 2012 baseball season, Dusty Baker faced health challenges, requiring hospitalization for an irregular heartbeat and a "mini-stroke".
October 22, 2013: Baker Exits Cincinnati
Following a disappointing end to the season, including a loss in the Wild Card game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cincinnati Reds fired Dusty Baker on October 22, 2013. This ended his tenure with the team. Bryan Price, the Reds' pitching coach, replaced Baker.
2013: Dusty Baker's Time with the Reds Concludes
Dusty Baker's time as manager of the Cincinnati Reds ended in 2013.
2013: Baker's Second Chance and Controversy
When Dusty Baker was hired by the Washington Nationals in 2015, he was the only black manager in Major League Baseball. However, his hiring drew scrutiny due to past allegations of overusing pitchers. Some argued that his previous teams in Cincinnati had actually thrown fewer pitches, and some baseball writers disputed a direct link between pitches thrown and injuries. His comments suggesting the Nationals should field more players of color also sparked controversy, though Baker defended them as observational rather than racist.
2014: Bruce Bochy's Third World Series Title
Bruce Bochy secured his third World Series title as manager of the San Francisco Giants in 2014.
2014: ESPN Documentary Features Dusty Baker's Potential High Five Origin
The ESPN 30 for 30 documentary "The High Five," released in 2014, explores the story of the high five and includes Dusty Baker's potential role in its origin.
November 3, 2015: Baker Takes Charge in Washington
On November 3, 2015, Dusty Baker was appointed as the new manager for the Washington Nationals for the 2016 season, marking his return to a managerial role after his departure from Cincinnati in 2013. He replaced Matt Williams after a deal with Bud Black fell through. At the time, Baker was the only black manager in Major League Baseball and held the second-highest win total in MLB history.
2015: Baker Joins TBS as Studio Analyst
In 2015, Dusty Baker joined TBS as a studio analyst, providing commentary for the final weeks of the regular season and the National League playoffs.
2015: Baker Inducted into Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame
Dusty Baker's significant contributions to Bay Area sports were recognized in 2015 with his induction into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame.
2016: Dusty Baker Takes Helm as Washington Nationals Manager
Dusty Baker began managing the Washington Nationals in 2016.
2016: Baker Returns to the Dugout
Dusty Baker's tenure as manager of the Washington Nationals began in the 2016 season.
October 20, 2017: Nationals Announce Baker and Coaching Staff Will Not Return
On October 20, 2017, the Washington Nationals announced that Dusty Baker and his coaching staff would not be returning to the team for the 2018 season. This came after the Nationals lost in the NLDS for the second consecutive year under Baker, despite strong regular season performances.
2017: Darren Baker Drafted by Nationals
Dusty Baker's son, Darren, was drafted by the Washington Nationals, the team his father was managing at the time, in the 27th round of the 2017 MLB draft.
2017: Dusty Baker's Time with the Nationals Ends
Dusty Baker's tenure as manager of the Washington Nationals concluded in 2017.
2018: Baker Does Not Manage
Dusty Baker did not manage a team in 2018 after being let go by the Washington Nationals the previous year.
2018: Baker Returns to Giants as Special Advisor
Dusty Baker rejoined the San Francisco Giants organization in 2018, taking on the role of Special Advisor to the CEO.
January 13, 2020: Astros Managerial Position Opens Up
On January 13, 2020, the Houston Astros fired manager A.J. Hinch due to the Astros' sign-stealing scandal. This created a vacancy for the managerial position.
July 28, 2020: Astros Pick Up Baker's Option
The Houston Astros picked up the 2021 option on Dusty Baker's contract on July 28, 2020, just four days after the delayed start of the season.
2020: Dave Roberts' World Series Victory
Dave Roberts became the second African-American manager to win a World Series in 2020.
2020: Baker a Finalist for Phillies Job
In 2020, Dusty Baker was one of the finalists considered for the Philadelphia Phillies managerial position. However, the Phillies ultimately hired Joe Girardi.
2020: Dusty Baker Becomes Manager of the Houston Astros
Dusty Baker was named manager of the Houston Astros in 2020.
2020: Dave Roberts Leads Dodgers to World Series Championship
Dave Roberts managed the Los Angeles Dodgers to a World Series championship in 2020.
April 22, 2021: Baker Earns 1,900th Win
Dusty Baker secured his 1,900th win as a manager on April 22, 2021, during the Astros' 8-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels. This achievement placed him among the top 15 managers in MLB history by wins.
October 22, 2021: Astros Clinch AL Pennant
On October 22, 2021, the Houston Astros, led by Dusty Baker, won Game 6 of the ALCS against the Boston Red Sox, securing their place in the World Series. This marked a significant achievement for Baker, as he became the ninth manager in MLB history to win a pennant in both the American and National Leagues.
November 5, 2021: Baker Signs Extension with Astros
On November 5, 2021, the Houston Astros announced that Dusty Baker had signed a one-year contract extension to remain as the team's manager for the 2022 season.
2021: Darren Baker Drafted by Nationals Again
Darren Baker was drafted for a second time by the Washington Nationals in the tenth round of the 2021 MLB draft, this time signing with the organization.
2021: Giants' Manager of the Year Award
Until 2021, Dusty Baker was the only Giants manager to win the NL Manager of the Year award.
2021: Astros Pick Up Baker's Option
The Houston Astros picked up Dusty Baker's option, ensuring he would manage the team in 2021.
2021: Baker Becomes First Manager to Lead Five Different Clubs to Division Titles
In 2021, Dusty Baker made history by becoming the first manager in Major League Baseball history to lead five different teams to division titles. This accomplishment solidified his place as one of the most successful managers in the sport.
May 3, 2022: Baker Achieves 2,000th Win
Dusty Baker achieved a significant milestone on May 3, 2022, when he earned his 2,000th win as a manager. This victory came against the Seattle Mariners in a 4-0 shutout at Minute Maid Park, making him the 12th manager in MLB history to reach this milestone and the first African American manager to do so.
2022: Baker Manages American League All-Star Team
Dusty Baker managed the American League team in the 2022 MLB All-Star Game, held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. This selection recognized his vast experience and success as a manager.
2022: World Series Victory and Historic Milestones
In 2022, Dusty Baker led the Houston Astros to a World Series victory, marking his first championship as a manager and solidifying his place in baseball history. At age 73, he became the oldest manager to achieve this feat. This victory was especially significant as it came 40 years after his first World Series win as a player, setting a record for the longest gap between championships. He also became the seventh person in MLB history to win a World Series title as both a player and a manager, and the third African-American manager to do so.
2022: Dusty Baker Wins World Series with the Astros
In 2022, Dusty Baker led the Houston Astros to a World Series victory.
June 1, 2023: Dusty Baker Achieves Eighth Place on All-Time Wins List
On June 1, 2023, Dusty Baker secured his place as the eighth-winningest manager in MLB history, surpassing Joe McCarthy with a victory against the Los Angeles Angels.
October 25, 2023: Dusty Baker Announces Retirement
After a long and successful career, Dusty Baker announced his retirement from baseball management on October 25, 2023.
2023: Dusty Baker Retires from Managing
Dusty Baker retired from managing in 2023.
January 18, 2024: Baker Joins Giants Front Office
On January 18, 2024, Dusty Baker returned to the San Francisco Giants organization, taking on the role of Special Advisor to Baseball Operations.
2024: Reds Seek Winning Formula
As of 2024, Dusty Baker remains the last Cincinnati Reds manager to achieve a winning record with the team.