Dusty Baker out in Cincinnati

Frank Victores-USA TODAY Sports

After leading the Cincinnati Reds to back-to-back 90-win seasons and a playoff appearance in three of the last four years, the Associated Press announced earlier today that the Cincinnati Reds will replace Dusty Baker as their manager. A Reds source confirmed this report to John Fay of the Cincinnati Enquirer.

Fay also reports that the final decision was not that of general manager Walt Jocketty. The final decision was made by owner Bob Castellini.

Reports emerged that Baker and Jocketty didn’t exactly see eye to eye on roster issues including the role of Aroldis Chapman and having Billy Hamilton on the roster. Adding that the Reds made no moves at the trading deadlines, non-waiver and waiver, most likely put a further strain on their working relationship.

A portion of the Reds fanbase grew weary of Baker’s lineups and his handling of the pitching staff. He was constant fodder for those calling in to local sports talk radio shows. The most recent point of contention among this faction was Baker and the “sense of urgency” of his team.

Over his tenure as the Reds skipper, Baker compiled a record of 509-454. He had a year remaining on his contract which was to see him earn $3.5 million for 2014.

If you’re looking for an in-house candidate, that list may consist of only one name: Jim Riggleman. The Reds initially hired Riggleman to manage the Pensacola Blue Wahoos, the Reds Double-A affiliate in the Southern League, in 2012. This past season, Riggleman was at the helm of their Triple-A affiliate, the Louisville Bats.

(H/T: Blog Red Machine)