Dusty

Because we're able to communicate quicker than instantly now, everyone's feelings about D. Baker as the Reds new manager were evident several days before he actually got the job. The verdict was resounding: Baker is the least popular choice since Vern Rapp. I said this on the radio last week: I don't understand the condemnation... 1,100 wins, 8 top 2 finishes in 14 years, players respect... he's not LaRussa or Torre, but the cred is there, and why does everyone assume the Reds could do better? Believe it or not, prospective skippers don't grow up dreaming of managing in Cincinnati.

Is Baker the best choice? I'd have held out awhile for LaRussa. But the chances of him coming here dimmed daily. You can't always get what you want. If you try sometimes, you get what you need.

Here's what Baker needs to do to win hearts and games here: Not allow Junior and Dunn to set the clubhouse tone. Stay with J. Votto -- and Keppinger, Hopper and eventually Bruce -- when they slump. Expect from Day One that this team play as a team. Play no favorites. Get yourself a big-time pitching coach. Leo Mazzone is available. Watch the pitch counts of Bailey and eventually Cueto. Lead, because if you don't, nobody else will.

Here's what fans need to do: Open your minds.