Reds extend manager Dusty Baker’s contract

CINCINNATI, Ohio - Reds owner Bob Castellini couldn’t imagine Dusty Baker leaving.

The 63-year-old manager got a two-year contract extension Monday, giving him another chance to take Cincinnati deep into the playoffs. They’ve been there twice in the last three years, failing both times to get past the division series.

Baker missed the Reds’ NL Central title celebration this year because he was hospitalized with an irregular heartbeat and a mini-stroke. He returned and lost ace Johnny Cueto at the start of their series against San Francisco, which ended with the Giants rallying to win Game 5.

The team’s first big question of the offseason was whether it would bring Baker back for another try.

“This is Dusty’s team,” Castellini said. “These fellas are poised to go deeper and deeper in the season.”

AP