1976 SSPC Dusty Baker

 

The card, in brief: I'm so used to old Dusty as a manager for so many decades, that is is surprising to see him so young. (Not even that young in this photo; 26 years old and in his eight big league season).

The player, in brief: Dusty Baker had a very solid playing career. He came up with the Braves as a 19-year-old in 1968, becoming a regular in 1972, hitting .321 with 17 HR and 76 RBI. He was traded to the Dodgers in a blockbuster, six-player deal on November 17, 1975, a trade mentioned on the back of this card. He was a key member of the Dodgers teams that made the postseason four times from 1977 to 1983. He was the MVP of the 1977 NLCS against Philadelphia. He was a Phillies-killer in the postseason, hitting .395 in three Dodgers-Phillies NLCS (compared to .238 in all other series). He ended his playing career with brief stints with the Giants and A's. Overall in 2,039 games he hit .278 with 242 HR and 1,013 RBI.

Post-career, in brief: Baker has managed five different teams for 26 years. He won three pennants as a manager and finally won a World Series with the Astros last year. Despite some early-season difficulties he once again has Houston in first place in 2023. He has a career record of 2,175-1,853, is eighth all time in wins, and seems likely to be elected to the Hall of Fame as a manager.

My collection: I have 40 of his cards, from 1973 to 1987. I would be interested in trading for 1971 Topps #709 and 1972 Topps #764.