In a conversation with Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Dusty Baker, the veteran manager, confirmed his retirement. The 74-year-old shared his decision with Houston Astros owner Jim Crane during a meeting held the previous day. The Astros have arranged a press conference for the following afternoon to make an official announcement. Expressing his gratitude, Baker said, "I'm very grateful and thankful to Jim Crane and the Houston Astros for giving me this opportunity, and to win a championship. I felt like they've been good for me, and I've been good for them. What I really appreciate is that Jim has been totally honest and transparent with me on all things." This announcement did not come as a surprise, as Chandler Rome and Britt Ghiroli of the Athletic had reported shortly after the Astros' exit from the ALCS that Baker had been sharing his intention to step away with those close to him. Baker himself confirmed to Nightengale that he had made this decision some time ago, citing a desire to move away from the daily demands of managerial work. However, he expressed hope in securing an advisory role within an organization to stay connected to the game in some capacity. cowboy channel plus