In the strongest indication yet that he’s ready to sever ties with the Giants and make himself available to the Cubs, Dusty Baker said he has no plans to speak with Giants owner Peter Magowan or general manager Brian Sabean before his contract expires Wednesday.
Baker, reached Tuesday at his home in San Bruno, Calif., said if the Giants still want to make him an offer, they’ll have to contact his agent, Jeff Moorad.
“It’s out of my hands now,” Baker said. “I’ve talked to them. They can talk to Jeff from now on.”
Baker was perturbed to read reports that Giants officials are waiting for Baker or Moorad to get in touch with them.
“It shouldn’t be my place to contact them,” Baker said. “I work for them–I’m the employee. Do they want me back? They have a funny way of saying. It seems to me like they’re just trying to figure out how not to look bad.”
So what will it take for the Cubs to sign him? Baker is looking for a financial commitment, but not for his own contract. He apparently wants to hear that the Cubs will commit the necessary resources to compete at the highest level.
“With Dusty, it’s not a question of money or years,” said WGN-TV analyst Steve Stone, a friend of Baker’s who spoke with him recently. “He has to believe that where he goes, the priority is to win the World Series.”
Baker continues to insist that his decision will not be based on money. He took exception to reports that he’s looking for at least $4 million per season. Some say Baker also will seek assurances that he will have full authority over the clubhouse.
Baker’s contract expires Wednesday. He said he wouldn’t be surprised if Sabean attempted a last-ditch effort to keep him.
Does Baker view Wednesday as a deadline for re-signing with the Giants?
“No,” he said. “I view it as Wednesday.”
