MLB: manager Dusty Baker will return to the helm of the Astros in 2023

HOUSTON — Just days after winning the World Series, Houston Astros manager Dusty Baker has agreed to a one-year deal to continue at the helm of the team next year.

The 73-year-old earned his first title in his 25th season as a major league manager after the Astros defeated the Philadelphia Phillies in six games on Saturday.

General Manager James Click’s and Baker’s deals expired at the end of last season, and Click’s has yet to be renewed. Click said Tuesday night he was discussing his future in the organization with Astros owner Jim Crane.

Click and Baker joined the Texas roster in 2020 to replace general manager Jeff Luhnow and manager AJ Hinch, who were fired after being embroiled in the Astros’ stolen signals scandal.

Baker then led the Astros through the season cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic. The team advanced to the playoffs after being drafted out of the American League, then powered up and moved just one win away from reaching the World Series.

The Astros had won 95 games by 2021, and Baker was in his first World Series since 2002 with the San Francisco Giants. However, he could not lift the precious trophy, since the Atlanta Braves defeated the Astros in six games.

This season, the Astros have won 106 games (the second-best season in franchise history) and secured their second World Series title, after the 2017 one marred by the stolen signals scandal. .