Darren Baker
Image via Rochester Red Wings
Darren Baker, the three-time “Most Popular Red Wing,” has played his last game for Rochester and Washington, closing an unforgettable chapter with the Nationals’ organization after five years. Drafted in 2021 by Washington, Baker’s “heart and hustle” have defined his journey, but after the 2025 season, he was released and will be embarking on a new challenge in 2026.
Reflecting on his time with the Washington Nationals and the Rochester Red Wings, Baker said in an exclusive interview with the Nats Report, “I’ve always tried to be a hitter who can use all fields. I know some people call me a ‘slap hitter’, but it’s not who I am. When I’m at my best, I’m dangerous to every part of the park.” With a .280 career batting average and .347 OBP across more than 1,700 at-bats, Baker racked up 90 extra-base hits—with 73 doubles, 10 triples, and 7 home runs—plus 102 stolen bases for Washington, earning his reputation as a “dynamic offensive weapon.”
His defense was similarly impressive, with Rochester fans twice witnessing Baker pull off plays worthy of ESPN’s Play of the Day. ESPN often flashed back to his iconic bat boy moment in Game 5 of the 2002 World Series, where his father Dusty Baker managed the Giants. “Growing up with my dad’s legacy, it was tough at times, especially in high school. Everyone knew who he was. But now, I’m comfortable with myself. It doesn’t bother me—I barely remember that World Series moment unless I see it on TV,” Baker explained. He credits his father for pushing him to develop strength and confidence, but paid special tribute to his mother: “A lot of times, it was just my mom and me. She took me to all my games and school. Without her, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Over three years with Rochester, Baker held down a .276 batting average and .347 OBP, specializing in getting on base before terrorizing pitchers with his speed—he led the team with 38 stolen bases in 2024 alone. His call-up to Washington in September 2025 saw him notch 7 hits in 14 at-bats, including two doubles. Still, playing time was limited, but the promotion landed Darren on the coveted 40-man roster.
His final season began under challenging circumstances—bitter cold, little spring training action, and a slow April start. “I didn’t get many reps in spring so April felt like my spring training. I just wasn’t ready and it showed,” said Baker of his early slump. Then the bat came alive in May, hitting .324 with a .377 OBP, and continued to soar through the summer, reaching .317 in June and .321 in July, posting OBPs above .400. “I’ve played long enough to know April wasn’t going to define my year. Once I got some at-bats, I felt like myself again. It was just tough digging out of that early hole,” Baker shared.
I’ve always bounced around positions, so taking reps in the outfield felt natural. Coach Mario Lisson deserves a lot of credit—he helped me break down video and learn the nuances. He made a huge difference for me,
The trade deadline in late July brought new prospects to Rochester, thinning Baker’s playing time. “The lack of rhythm hurt. I went from regular starts to every few days. August was hard—I started pressing and my numbers fell off. Not knowing when I’d play next really messed with my approach, but I just tried to help the team win every time I got out there,” Baker recounted. He was designated for assignment on September 3 but chose to finish the year in Rochester as a free agent—his first time facing an offseason without a team.
Baker’s positive energy has been a consistent hallmark. “I’m talking with my agent, staying positive and working through options. I have faith the process will work out. I’ve had setbacks before, but I always find a way through. Right now, I’m lifting six days a week and working on a bat speed program my college coach introduced me to,” he explained.
More than statistics, Baker became the “Face of the Red Wings.” Whether promoting the Lilac Festival, debuting new jerseys, or greeting fans with his signature smile, Baker said, “The support and love I felt in Rochester is something I’ve never experienced. A lot of fans became like family to me. I’m forever grateful for my time here—I wouldn’t trade it for the world.” Baker became only the second player in Rochester’s 148-year history to be voted “Most Popular Player” for three consecutive years—a testament to his connection on and off the field.
Wherever Darren Baker’s journey leads in 2026, Rochester will always be part of his story. “I wish all of them nothing but the best!”