In 1968, a 19-year-old Dusty Baker made his MLB debut as an outfielder for the Atlanta Braves against the Houston Astros. 53 years later, he finds himself in quite the story as the manager of the Astros, who will take on the Braves in this year’s World Series.

During the initial years with the Braves, Baker forged a special bond with Hank Aaron, one of the best hitters of all-time. In a recent interaction, the 72-year-old spoke about the importance of winning the Fall Classic for him.

Dusty Baker looks to win the World Series for Hank Aaron

Aaron played for the Braves for over two decades. In fact, he featured in the team when they were in Milwaukee before moving to Atlanta. During his career, he earned a whopping 25 All-Star appearances, and won the World Series in 1957.

His death in January this year shook Baker, who considered Aaron as his mentor in the sport. When asked about Aaron, the 72-year-old admitted he wanted to win this year’s World Series for his former teammate.

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He said, “In terms of what he did for people’s lives outside of baseball and what he did for mine, it really makes me want to do more for people. I really want to try and win this year in his honor.”

Baker also spoke about visiting Aaron’s family in Atlanta after his death, while mentioning this year’s World Series gives quite the ending to a stunning chapter in his career.

“In the year of Hank Aaron’s passing, to go back to Atlanta and talk to his wife and his kids and all the people that are close to the family … it’s very special,” said the 72-year-old. “This is kinda going to be a storybook ending, really, for all of us.”

The Houston Astros will have home advantage in the World Series

Due to their superior regular season record, four of the seven World Series games will take place in the Minute Maid Park.

While the Astros are strong at home, they are also capable of producing wins on the road. In the ALCS against the Boston Red Sox, two of their four wins came at Fenway Park, which shows their capability. Although the Braves look a solid outfit, this could be the Astros’ best chance to win their second World Series title.

Houston Astros Manager Dusty Baker Becomes First in MLB History to Earn This Record