Y'all absolutely sure we can't replace Dusty before the playoffs? I will literally take no manager in the dugout as opposed to Dusty.
Not a Baker fan, but this makes more sense than usual for him. “I hope we don’t need him (Javier) for the next couple days. Relieving’s new to him, so we’ve got to protect him and do the best we can and kind of space him out and make sure that he’s healthy and safe.” From Kaplan of the Athletic.
Just want to follow up on the original post. 13 months later and I have to admit--Baker has been very good for this team. I don't agree with all of the decisions, but he's been an anchor of stability in a time of tremendous chaos, and he has kept this team focused on the ultimate goal. Definitely wrong in suggesting he should have been fired. Looking back, he has earned props. 1 game to go to the Series. Get it done, Astros!
He was a disaster in the regular season, but for the second postseason in a row Dusty's been fine. I haven't agreed with every decision, but all in all hard to complain. Granted the blowout heavy postseason has taken a lot out of his hands.
The series isn’t over, but can we at least put to bed the idea that he causes teams to choke or panic or be too passive or whatever? This team has been resilient both last year and this year.
This was why Baker was hired. Following the scandal the Astros needed a manager that was universally respected, someone who had both gravitas but also could relate to players. Dusty has been all of that to this team. The only thing left to do would be for him to get a World Series ring and complete redemption for this team.
I would agree with this assessment. To get only 18 innings out of his last 7 starters before today and still be hanging around trying to advance has been something to watch Dusty maneuver through the chaos. He's done a masterful job.
This thread didn't age well. But I will take getting back to the World Series to prove US ALL wrong. There have been some questionable decisions throughout the year, no question. But he has gotten the best out of this team when we needed it most. Let's GO!!!