Dusty Baker's Son Officially Signs with the White Sox on Minor League Deal

Darren Baker, the son of long-time MLB manager Dusty Baker, has joined the Chicago White Sox on a minor league contract.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Chicago White Sox have signed Darren Baker, the son of former MLB manager Dusty Baker, to a minor league deal. Baker, a 27-year-old infielder, previously spent time in the majors with the Washington Nationals in 2024 and spent the 2025 season with their Triple-A affiliate. He is expected to suit up for the White Sox's Triple-A team, the Charlotte Knights, when the season begins next month.

Why it matters

The signing of Darren Baker adds depth and versatility to the White Sox's minor league system. While he has struggled to be an impact hitter at the upper levels, Baker's defensive versatility, allowing him to play multiple infield and outfield positions, could make him a useful utility player if called upon by the major league club.

The details

Darren Baker, the son of long-time MLB manager Dusty Baker, has signed a minor league deal with the Chicago White Sox. Baker, a 27-year-old infielder, previously spent time in the majors with the Washington Nationals in 2024, recording 7 hits in 14 plate appearances over 9 games. In 2025, Baker spent the entire season with the Nationals' Triple-A affiliate, the Rochester Red Wings, where he hit .256/.343/.318 over 107 games. Baker is expected to suit up for the White Sox's Triple-A team, the Charlotte Knights, when the season begins next month.

  • Darren Baker officially joined the White Sox on February 14, 2026.
  • In 2024, Baker spent 9 games in the majors with the Washington Nationals.
  • In 2025, Baker spent the entire season with the Nationals' Triple-A affiliate, the Rochester Red Wings.

The players

Darren Baker

A 27-year-old infielder who is the son of long-time MLB manager Dusty Baker.

Dusty Baker

A former two-time All-Star and Silver Slugger winner who went on to have a long and successful managing career, including winning a World Series title with the Houston Astros in 2022 before retiring in 2023.

Chris Getz

The general manager of the Chicago White Sox.

Luisangel Acuna

A utility player who came over to the White Sox as part of the Luis Robert Jr. trade earlier this offseason.

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What they’re saying

“Darren Baker is expected to suit up for Charlotte when the season kicks off next month.”

— Bob Nightengale (si.com)

What’s next

The White Sox will monitor Darren Baker's performance with their Triple-A affiliate, the Charlotte Knights, as they evaluate his potential to contribute at the major league level.

The takeaway

The signing of Darren Baker, the son of legendary manager Dusty Baker, adds depth and versatility to the White Sox's minor league system. While he has struggled to be an impact hitter, Baker's defensive flexibility could make him a useful utility player if called upon by the major league club.