I realize that most of the posters on this forum think that it is a foregone conclusion that Baker is not coming back next season.  I hope that they are right, but I am afraid that they are wrong.   If the Cubs "finish strong", I can see Hendry keeping Baker noting that he had so many key injuries this year and he still kept the ball club together.  After all, look how strong they finished (8-3 in their last 11 games) and look at the young guys that have been developed for next season.  

And the interviews being given by Baker are the kind of interviews given by a Manager who does not expect to be fired, but expects to be back.   Consider some of the quotes being reported from the Dan Jiggets' interview about Baker doing his best.  And no comments from Hendry at all about Baker, which is also suggestive of the fact that he is not going to throw Baker under the bus.  

I think Baker is staying.