Reds extend Dusty Baker contract

Cincinnati Reds general manager Walk Jocketty plans on offering manager Dusty Baker a short-term contract, reports Bob Nightengale of USA Today:

Walt Jocketty will meet this morning w Dusty Baker and plans to offer short term contract #Reds

— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) October 12, 2012

Following the Reds defeat to the San Francisco Giants in Game 5 of the National League Division Series, Baker said he was unsure of his future. It didn’t appear it was an issue he would have to consider for at least another week, as the Reds took a 2-0 series lead against the Giants. However, San Francisco rallied to down Cincinnati in five and advance to the NL Championship Series.

Baker’s contract with the Reds expired following the season, and his personal health matters further hazed his future, not only with the club, but in general. The 63-year-old suffered what was diagnosed as a mini-stroke at the end of the regular season, causing him to miss time while in the hospital. He was able to return for the playoffs, but he hasn’t committed to continuing his managing career beyond 2012.

Baker’s spent 19 seasons managing in the majors as a member of the San Francisco Giants, Chicago Cubs and Reds.