Dusty McToothpick Is Off to Greener Pastures

As you most likely saw by now, Cubs manager Dusty Baker has been shown the door. Technically, it doesn't go down as a firing since his contract was up anyway, but neither party is unhappy to see him go, make no mistake. From 5 outs away from the pennant, to a wild-card collapse, to a losing season, to last place in the NL. I think it's supposed to go in the other direction.

The most intriguing part of the press conference? Jim Hendry announcing that experience is not necessarily the most important criteria. That opens the door for Joe Girardi or Fredi Gonzalez (although the latter appears headed for Florida to replace Girardi).

(Update: Dusty's going to ESPN to join their postseason broadcast team. Now, this should be fun.)