More from Baker

Dusty Baker talked about a lot of things in Monday. Some of the more interesting things he addressed:

On questions about the way he handled Mark Prior and Kerry Wood: “I think it is (unfair). You’ve got to look at my total history, my 14 years. There’s always questions about anyone. I did what I thought was best at the time for team, the city, the organization and the players. You look back on my history – I really don’t feel the need or desire to defend myself – but you look back at total record and not look at that one year. The one thing I pride myself on is keeping my players on the field and keeping them healthy as long as possible. If you keep your front line players on the field you give yourself the best chance to win.”

On his alleged aversion to playing young players: “They’ve got a mixture of veterans and youth. This is what I’ve always yearned for – a team with young players who you teach how to play and play winning baseball. We’re a few parts away. But, like I said, I can attract players here. Hopefully, we can develop some players in the minor leagues."

On toothpicks and wrist bands: "I've worn wristbands since I was a young kid. I started chewing tooth picks to try to stop dipping (tobacco)." How'd that go? "It works until bases are loaded in the seventh inning."

On the coaching staff: He will probably retain some of the current staff. "The players have already had too many coaches in a short period. It's like in football always changing offensive coordinators."

On being a players' manager: "I've been able to figure what that means. What's the opposite of a players' manager?"