Despite the ups and downs during his time as manager in Cincinnati, Dusty Baker deserves to win the 2012 National League Manager of the Year.
After narrowly missing out on the award when he led the Reds to the NL Central title in 2010, Baker should receive some recognition for his work with the team this season.
He is in the last year of his contract, but John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer reports owner Bob Castellini wants Baker to stick around for years to come. The manager deserves an extension because the team is closing in on its second division title in three seasons.
Baker is a player's manager, which is great for the clubhouse. The team always looks loose and does not press too much. His managing style is a big reason for the team's success.
Like him or not, there is no denying how much the players like him. Respect for a manager goes a long way in the majors, and Baker has him team playing great baseball since the All-Star break.
The Reds currently own an 11-game lead on the St. Louis Cardinals. When the team finally clinches, fans should realize the adversity the team has overcome this season. Baker should be rewarded after the season by being named the NL Manager of the Year.
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