Aaron molded careers of World Series managers Snitker, Baker

By CHARLES ODUM
AP Sports Writer

ATLANTA (AP) — Hank Aaron’s imprint is all over this World Series. His number 44 was on the outfield grass at Atlanta’s Truist Park for Game 3. And his son threw out the ceremonial first ball before the Braves played the Astros. Aaron’s impact is also evident on the game’s managers, Houston’s Dusty Baker and Atlanta’s Brian Snitker. Aaron was responsible for convincing Baker to sign with the Braves as a teenage outfielder in 1967. As the Braves’ farm director, Aaron set the path for Snitker’s long career as a coach and manager. When it was clear Snitker had no future as a catcher or first baseman, Aaron offered an opportunity to remain in the game as a coach.