Cincinnati Reds manager Dusty Baker was released from a Chicago hospital Sunday morning after spending four nights under the watchful eye of doctors because of an irregular heartbeat. Baker returned to Cincinnati on Sunday afternoon and briefly visited the ballpark during batting practice, taking the time to meet with several players, per the Dayton Daily News:
Dusty Baker Out Of Hospital, Timing Of Return To Dugout Uncertain
"He was in good spirits and had a big smile on his face, a welcome sight for all of us, obviously," said Ryan Ludwick.
"He got a bunch of hugs from all of us and seemed cool, calm and collected. We want him here, but he is taking some time to chill out. He came in, made his rounds, and each guy gave him a hug."
There is no set timeline for Baker’s return to the dugout, but those close to the manager have said that they are under instructions to take things slowly and that he is not quite ready for the high stress of a game. Bench coach and interim manager Chris Speier is hopeful that a restful day at home Monday will allow Baker to return to the dugout as early as Tuesday night, but it is possible he could sit out until the playoffs.
The division champion Reds will continue to be managed by Speier, who is 7-2 at the helm, until Baker returns.
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