Darren Baker may soon be joining his father, Houston Astros manager, Dusty Baker, in the Major Leagues. He came into Thursday’s game hitting .353/.423/.466 for the Rochester Red Wings, the Triple-A affiliate of the Washington Nationals.
And looking at a play he made during Thursday’s game against the Worcester Red Sox, his glove is also Major League-ready.
David Hamilton led the top of the third inning off for Worcester, hitting a grounder to the right side of the infield. Rochester first baseman, Matt Adams, dove for the ball but couldn’t bring it in, only deflecting it. Initially, it looked like the deflection would cause the diving Baker to miss the ball, as well. Then, he got creative.
Baker dropped his glove hand behind his body, securing the ball with a behind-the-back grab. He then jumped to his feet and threw the ball to pitcher Paolo Espino, who was covering first base.
Darren Baker just did WHAT?! 🤯
The @Nationals prospect records a one-of-a-kind out for the @RocRedWings: pic.twitter.com/Qm5AjKUbZg
— Minor League Baseball (@MiLB) May 11, 2023
The play caught the attention of baseball fans, who were impressed by Baker’s slick work with the glove.
Watch this incredible defensive play by #Astros manager #DustyBaker's son! 🤯 https://t.co/IL7JMddTUI
— Patrick Mahan (@patrickmahan) May 12, 2023
He’s ready
— The Rally Mullet (@TheRallyMullet) May 12, 2023
You’re Nasty! @DarrenBaker_2 🤯 https://t.co/t5ra0y0cWB
— Kyren Paris (@kyren_paris) May 12, 2023
One of the cleanest plays you’ll ever see https://t.co/ulX2oOjaI3
— Steve (@SteveMcCleary) May 12, 2023
Just give him the Gold Glove now https://t.co/PqVV5JXKbV
— Joe Salvatore (@radiojoee) May 12, 2023
Baker also padded his offensive numbers, going 2-for-5 in his team’s 12-7 win. Of course, we don’t know what kind of Major League career Baker will have. But he’s 24, producing at the plate and making this kind of play in the field.
It doesn’t seem like there’s much more for him to do in the Minors.