Astros name Baker manager

*Photo from the Cincinnati Enquirer*

   The Houston Astros have named Dusty Baker as their new manager, according to the team. Baker takes over for AJ Hinch, who was fired by owner Jim Crane earlier this month as a result of the sign stealing scandal that implicated the Astros of stealing signs in the 2017 season, the year they won the world series. The deal is for one year, and includes a club option and buyout for the 2021 season. Baker will become the 24th manager in Astros history.

   Baker most recently served as a special advisor to San Francisco Giants CEO Larry Baer. Baker last managed the Washington Nationals in 2016 and 2017, leading the team to NL East titles both years. Baker has managed in the big leagues for 22 years, and is a 3 time National League Manager of the year and led the Giants to the National League pennant in 2002, losing to the Los Angeles Angels in the world series that season. 

   Baker started his managerial career in 1993, managing the Giants for 10 years. He then moved to Chicago and managed the Cubs from 2003 to 2006. He then managed the Reds from 2008 to 2013 before joining Washington in 2016. Baker has a record of 1,863-1,636 as a manager, which makes a .532 winning percentage, and he's led his team to the playoffs 9 times. Despite the consistent success and accolades, Baker has never won a world series.

   Astros owner Jim Crane said in a statement that "Throughout his successful career, Dusty has embodied the qualities that we were looking for in a manager, he's a winner, and more importantly, a strong leader who has earned the respect of not only his players, but of virtually everyone that he has touched in baseball. We're extremely excited to name Dusty as the new leader of our ballclub." Baker's introductory press conference is set for tomorrow.