On Thursday, the Houston Astros secured their fourth American League West title in the past five years. The team’s manager Dusty Baker has exceptionally clinched five division titles as a player, and eight as a manager.

Houston Astros defeated Tampa Bay Rays to clinch the American League West title by 3-2. The day was special and victorious as  72-year-old Dusty Baker became the first MLB manager to win division titles with five different teams.

Dusty Baker celebrated with the ”shoey” tradition

Dusty Baker and the Houston Astros team celebrated the victory in their clubhouse, and they couldn’t have missed out on the tradition. The team encouraged Baker to follow the “shoey” tradition, often followed by F1 players. It’s simple yet unique, as Baker drank the champagne out of the shoes, rather than a basic glass.

Before the team exploded the champagne on him, Dusty Baker reflected upon the year and praised the boys. He said, “That was the hardest but greatest year ever for me. Thank you, guys. I know I ain’t been in here much after the game with y’all celebrating but tonight, man, is a special, special night.”

He further added, “I just want to thank God for you guys and thank God for everything that’s happened. I love you guys, man.”

When the Astros team was going through a rough patch, Bakers joined them. It would be fair to say that Dusty has played a prominent role in establishing their lost dignity back. While Houston Astros lost to Tampa Bay Rays in 2020 during the AL championships series. They got their sweet revenge in 2021, as they defeated them to win their fourth title.

Baker joined the Houston Astros in 2020

Dusty Baker first started his off-field journey as a coach for San Francisco Giants in 1988. However, in 2017, he left his gear as the responsibility of the manager. In 2020, Houston Astros approached Baker and signed him up as the manager.

The veteran manager’s contract with Dusty Baker will be over by the end of the 2021 season. Do you think Houston Astros will renew the contract considering their victories since he has joined?

Also read: Nolan Arenado Predicted St. Louis Cardinals Wildcard Success Months Before Winning Streak