COREY BAIRD FC Cincinnati Forward #11 Profile and 2025 Season Impact
Corey Baird steps into FC Cincinnati’s lineup as forward number 11, bringing a wealth of Major League Soccer experience. He inked his deal with the Orange and Blue in January 2024, sticking around through 2025 and possibly into 2026 if the club takes up that option (source).
You’ve got to like what he adds—depth, a real attacking spark, and a bit of swagger to the roster. Baird’s arrival just feels like the kind of move a club makes when they’re serious about contending.
Before Cincinnati, Baird wore Houston Dynamo FC colors and built a rep as a gritty, clever forward. In 2023, he found the net 14 times in all competitions—a personal best. Cincinnati clearly targeted him to juice up their attack, and honestly, fans have every reason to keep an eye on how this shapes the season.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Houston Dynamo FC | 23 | 2 | 4 |
| 2023 | Houston Dynamo FC | 48 | 14 | – |
| 2024–25 | FC Cincinnati | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Contents
Player Profile: Corey Baird
Corey Baird’s a proven MLS forward, and he’s built his name on versatility and consistency. FC Cincinnati brought him in because he fits the bill as a key contributor.
Early Life and Background
Born January 30, 1996, in Poway, California, Baird grew up in Southern California, grinding through local clubs before climbing the soccer ladder.
He spent his college days at Stanford, where he didn’t just play—he helped the Cardinal win three NCAA championships. That’s no small feat, and it says something about his leadership and technical chops.
In 2018, Baird made the jump to the pros, landing in Major League Soccer. He’s played for Real Salt Lake, LAFC, and Houston Dynamo before landing in Cincinnati. CAA Stellar represents him.
Position and Playing Style
Baird’s the kind of guy coaches love because he can play almost anywhere up top—forward, winger, right or left. That flexibility makes him a go-to option whenever the lineup needs a shakeup.
He’s quick, sharp with decisions, and always moving off the ball. Baird finds space behind defenders and can whip in a cross or finish himself. He doesn’t slack on defense either, chasing back and putting in the work (defensive work rate).
For Cincinnati, he brings options—central striker, wide attacker, you name it. Here’s a quick look at his career stats as of 2024:
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| MLS Appearances | 170+ |
| Goals | 25+ |
| Assists | 20+ |
| Primary Positions | Forward, Winger |
Want more? Check out FC Cincinnati’s official feature on what they expect from him.
FC Cincinnati: Club and Impact
When Corey Baird landed in Cincinnati, he brought a proven goal-scoring record and a little extra spark. The move lined up perfectly with the club’s push for a balanced, competitive roster, and you could feel the buzz in town.
How Corey Baird Joined FC Cincinnati
In January 2024, Baird signed on the dotted line for Cincinnati, committing through 2025 with an option for another year. GM Chris Albright worked hard to get Baird in as a free agent after his Houston stint.
Cincinnati wanted more firepower up front after a strong run last year. At 29, Baird brought MLS experience and reliability to the forward spot. He arrived just in time for preseason at TQL Stadium, which is pretty ideal.
The club rolled out the signing on all their channels, and fans jumped on the news. Ticket demand for the home opener at TQL Stadium went up—Vivid Seats even reported a bump. It’s clear the front office saw Baird as a piece to push Cincinnati up the Eastern Conference.
Role in the Squad
Baird wears number 11 and brings a mix of work rate, sharp positioning, and finishing. Cincinnati uses him all across the front—sometimes as the main striker, sometimes out wide.
His 2023 numbers with Houston Dynamo pop off the page: 14 goals in 48 games. The club valued his ability to handle big moments, including playoff pressure.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | Houston Dynamo FC | 23 | 2 | 4 |
| 2023 | Houston Dynamo FC | 48 | 14 | N/A |
Baird’s leadership and knack for connecting with teammates have made him a real asset as Cincinnati looks to make noise in the postseason.
Fanbase and Community
Baird’s arrival gave Cincinnati fans a shot of hope. In a city where soccer’s on the rise, he’s made an effort to get involved right away.
He’s shown up at community events, youth clinics, and meet-and-greets. The club’s social media team loves highlighting those moments.
Fans here are loyal, and they’ve responded to Baird’s attitude. Ticket sales have stayed strong, and his presence as both a player and ambassador keeps building that bond between team and city.
Professional Career Overview
Corey Baird has carved out a solid path as an MLS forward—he’s known for showing up, working hard, and delivering when it counts. He’s played for a handful of respected clubs, and each stop has shaped his game.
Major League Soccer Journey
Baird broke into MLS with Real Salt Lake in 2018 and wasted no time making an impression. He snagged Rookie of the Year honors with 8 goals and 5 assists. His pressing and energy stood out.
He spent three seasons with Salt Lake, racking up 15 goals in 81 games. Then, in 2021, he moved to LAFC. His time in LA was short but busy, and he quickly shifted to Houston Dynamo FC later that year.
In Houston, he found his stride, especially in 2023 with that career-high goal tally. Cincinnati picked him up in January 2024, locking him in through 2025 with an option for another year.
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2018-2020 | Real Salt Lake | 81 | 15 | 13 |
| 2021 | Los Angeles FC | 13 | 0 | 2 |
| 2021-2023 | Houston Dynamo | 68 | 14 | 7 |
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | Ongoing | – | – |
Former Clubs
At Real Salt Lake, Baird grew into a regular starter and playoff contributor. He had to adapt quickly at LAFC, but his time there was limited.
Houston Dynamo gave him the minutes and trust to shine. He responded with his best season yet, showing he could play both centrally and out wide.
Now in Cincinnati, the club counts on him for depth and leadership. They see him as a key piece for the 2024 playoff push.
Notable Trades and Transfers
Baird’s career has included a few notable moves. Real Salt Lake traded him to LAFC in 2021, putting him on a team loaded with attacking talent.
LAFC then dealt him to Houston Dynamo midseason, where he got more playing time and made an impact. His performances in Houston proved he was worth the gamble.
He joined Cincinnati as an MLS free agent in 2024. His agency, CAA Stellar, helped him land a deal with a club option for 2026. That’s a sign the club believes he’s still got plenty to give.
Achievements and Recognition
Corey Baird stands out for his early impact and steady play in MLS. He’s picked up league awards and made his mark on every team he’s joined.
MLS Rookie of the Year
Baird burst onto the MLS scene in 2018, winning Rookie of the Year. He put up 8 goals and 5 assists, turning heads right away.
He adapted fast and played important minutes, showing poise in the final third.
2018 Rookie Season
| Stat | Number |
|---|---|
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Appearances | 31 |
That Rookie of the Year trophy put him on the map around the league.
Team Titles and Honors
Baird has helped his teams reach the playoffs, though a major national championship still eludes him. He’s been part of squads with high expectations, including Cincinnati’s current group aiming for the Supporters’ Shield and MLS Cup.
He’s a team-first guy, slotting in wherever needed up top. His playoff experience is solid, and he’s shown up in big games when it matters.
International Call-Ups
Corey Baird’s gotten the nod from the United States Men’s National Team. He debuted in January 2019 and, right out of the gate, picked up an assist against Panama.
He’s played for the U.S. in friendlies and joined the squad for several training camps. Baird hasn’t suited up in the CONCACAF Gold Cup yet, but his spot in the national pool says plenty about his club performances.
Coaches clearly trust his style, and he’s shown he can step up in international matches. He’s still a name to watch for future national team call-ups.
College and Youth Development
Corey Baird built his soccer foundation through a mix of top schools and tough youth clubs. His years at Stanford and those early clubs set the stage for his pro career.
Stanford University Career
Baird committed to Stanford University in 2013 and jumped right into a big role for the men’s soccer team. Under head coach Jeremy Gunn, he took charge in midfield and attack.
From 2014 to 2017, Baird helped Stanford win three straight NCAA Division I Men’s Soccer Championships. He stood out for his vision, relentless work, and versatility.
He racked up double-digit assists more than once and earned a spot on the All-Pac-12 First Team.
Here’s a quick look at some of his college stats:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Honors |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | 23 | 3 | 5 | Pac-12 Freshman Team |
| 2015 | 23 | 2 | 9 | All-Pac-12 First Team |
| 2016 | 21 | 4 | 6 | NCAA Champion |
| 2017 | 23 | 4 | 8 | NCAA Champion |
Stanford’s structure and tough academics shaped his discipline and soccer IQ. His passing and decision-making really took off during college.
Youth Clubs and Education
Before Stanford, Baird played for top youth organizations. He spent time at IMG Academy and played in the Cal South Olympic Development Program.
Those experiences exposed him to national-level competition and coaching.
He attended Cathedral Catholic High School in San Diego, juggling school with his rising soccer career. Baird also played for several U.S. youth national teams, showing his skills on bigger stages.
Time with those youth clubs and coaches sharpened his technical game and built his confidence. That early work paid off at Stanford and beyond. For more on his background, check out Corey Baird’s player page.
Notable Performances and Milestones
Corey Baird’s run with FC Cincinnati proves he’s a forward who steps up when it matters—scoring big goals, setting up teammates, and making plays in high-pressure matches.
He’s made a real impact in both regular season games and knockout rounds.
Key Goals and Assists
Baird’s delivered some highlight moments with his finishing and passing. In 2023, while at Houston, he scored 14 goals and picked up a handful of assists—a big jump in production.
He joined FC Cincinnati and made an immediate impact as a forward. He’s played both creator and finisher.
Coaches trust him to start most games, which says a lot about his value to the attack. Baird’s quick movement and decisive actions in the box keep defenders on their toes.
Recent Key Stats
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Houston Dynamo | 48 | 14 | 4 |
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | Ongoing | Ongoing | Ongoing |
More on his performances over at Transfermarkt’s detailed stats.
Major Matches
Baird shows up for the big games. Whether he starts or comes off the bench, he brings a burst of energy and smart positioning.
In rivalry games and matches with playoff stakes, his work rate and movement open up space for teammates. His pressing often forces mistakes from the other side.
He scored in must-win matches for Houston and delivered clutch assists late in games. Since joining Cincinnati, he’s logged important minutes up front and brought a steady hand when things get tense.
Coaches put him in late-game spots, and that trust speaks volumes.
MLS Playoffs and Cups
Baird’s played a lot of knockout soccer—MLS Cup Playoffs, Leagues Cup, U.S. Open Cup, you name it. He’s calm and reliable when the pressure ramps up.
He’s got a mix of regular season and postseason experience, giving his teams depth in the big moments.
In U.S. Open Cup and Leagues Cup, he’s chipped in with both goals and assists. Baird adapts to those win-or-go-home situations, using his know-how to help younger teammates.
His presence boosts Cincinnati’s attack when trophies are on the line. For more on his match updates and cup appearances, check Corey Baird’s club profile.
Contract Details and Transfer Market
Corey Baird is an experienced forward leading the line for FC Cincinnati. His contract, agent, and future outlook all play into his role and what’s next for his career.
Current Contract Status
Baird signed with FC Cincinnati in January 2024. The deal keeps him at the club through the end of 2025, with a club option for another year.
So, Cincinnati can keep him around through 2026 if they want. The contract locks in Baird’s services until December 31, 2025, unless something wild happens in the transfer market.
His form in 2023 and his experience made him a top signing.
Here’s a breakdown of his contract details:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Start Date | January 11, 2024 |
| Duration | 2 years + 1 year option* |
| Expires | December 31, 2025 |
| Extension | Club option for 2026 |
| Current Club | FC Cincinnati |
*The team option gives Cincinnati flexibility.
For more on his contract, see the Transfermarkt contract page.
Player Representation
CAA Stellar, a big name in sports agencies, represents Corey Baird. They handle negotiations, image rights, and off-field deals for players all over Europe and North America.
With CAA Stellar backing him, Baird has agents who know the ins and outs of MLS contracts and transfers. The agency’s experience helps him get solid deals and plan for the future.
CAA Stellar’s network also opens up commercial opportunities and possible moves abroad if something comes up. You can check Baird’s Transfermarkt profile for more.
Future Prospects
Looking forward, Baird’s contract structure gives both him and Cincinnati options. If he keeps performing, the club can pick up that extra year. If not, he’ll hit free agency after 2025.
At 29, Baird’s right in his prime for an MLS forward. His recent form and ability to play up top mean other clubs, here or abroad, could come calling.
His next move—whether it’s a new contract, a trade, or something overseas—will probably depend on how he plays the next couple seasons.
To follow his value and contract updates, Transfermarkt has a player profile and contract history.
Broader Impact on Soccer
Corey Baird’s journey with FC Cincinnati shows how MLS is changing when it comes to developing talent and moving players around. His rise as a homegrown player highlights the new training systems and growing media attention.
Influence in MLS
Baird’s time in MLS shows how a determined player can adapt and bring value to different clubs. He started as a homegrown guy at Real Salt Lake, then boosted Houston Dynamo’s attack, and now he’s moving the ball for FC Cincinnati.
The league’s efforts to keep American talent are on display with his career.
He made over 80 appearances for Houston Dynamo and started strong for Cincinnati, proving he can fit different systems and meet league demands. His contract through 2025, with an option for 2026, shows clubs see him as a long-term piece.
Baird’s presence pushes other attackers to step up and gives younger players a solid example.
Corey Baird MLS Stats
| Season | Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Houston Dynamo | 7 | 0 | 1 |
| 2021-23 | Houston Dynamo | 80 | 17 | N/A |
| 2024 | FC Cincinnati | Signed | N/A | N/A |
Contribution to American Soccer
Baird’s steady play has helped boost American soccer’s level. Coming up through the homegrown system, he’s proof that U.S. training programs can produce high-level talent.
He’s reliable in attack and midfield, not just for scoring but also for setting up teammates—something every good team needs.
At clubs like Real Salt Lake, Houston Dynamo, and now FC Cincinnati, he’s shown young American players they don’t have to be flashy to make an impact. His key roles at several clubs show how U.S. soccer’s depth keeps improving, both in quality and consistency.
Media and Soccer News
You know, soccer news outlets just can’t help but keep tabs on Baird. The guy’s always on the move, and he’s built a real reputation as a hard-working, effective forward.
Reporters jumped on his signing with FC Cincinnati, calling it a big offseason move. That says a lot about how much folks around the league respect him.
Writers love to talk about Baird’s rise—from homegrown player to a real offensive weapon. Honestly, it fits right in with the MLS trend of betting big on domestic talent.
You’ll see constant updates about Baird, whether it’s live stats, match highlights, or the latest transfer buzz. He stays relevant in MLS coverage, no question.
People track his career for more than just his goals. He’s become a bit of a measuring stick for how clubs value and use American forwards as the league tries to grab the world’s attention.
