Books and articles about Gene Baker

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An all-star shortstop in the Pacific Coast League, Baker switched to second base as a rookie with the Cubs in 1954 and, along with shortstop Ernie Banks, was named to the all-rookie team by TSN. Although he led NL second basemen in errors for three straight years, he had excellent range and his bat showed occasional home run power. In 1957, Baker was traded to the Pirates along with Dee Fondy for Dale Long and Lee Walls. Early the next season, he injured his knee. He missed all of 1959 and played only a few games in 1960-61 before turning to coaching and scouting for the Pirates. (MN)

FROM THE BASEBALL CHRONOLOGY » May 10, 1955: Dodger ace Don Newcombe one-hits the Cubs 3–0. Gene Baker, who singles in the 4th and is caught stealing, is the only base runner. » May 1, 1957: The Cubs send 1B Dee Fondy and 2B Gene Baker to Pittsburgh for 1B Dale Long and OF Lee Walls. Fondy hits .300 but will be traded, while Walls and Long will knock out 45 home runs for the Cubs this season.