LAFC has a lot of talent up front with players such as Carlos Vela, Diego Rossi, or Brian Rodriguez. However, those mentioned forwards play on the outside. The club did have Englishman Bradley Wright-Philips up the middle, but the 35-year old recently signed with Columbus Crew SC. The loss of such a veteran depletes the depth of the club as Danny Musovski is the only natural center forward left on the roster.
To deal with the dilemma, LAFC has acquired forward Corey Baird from Real Salt Lake for $500,000 in General Allocation Money, a 2021 international roster spot, and future considerations.
Can’t wait to get going 👍🏼🖤💛 https://t.co/6gdeJ2yQt3
— Corey Baird (@bairdy_23) January 11, 2021
The former 2018 Rookie of the Year winner spent three seasons in Utah where he produced 15 goals and 13 assists in 83 career appearances. Baird has the ability to play on either wing, but with the talent and depth that the team already has on the outside, he’ll most likely be used through the center.
After the completion of the trade, LAFC Co-President and General Manager John Thorrington released a statement on Baird.
“Corey is a dynamic attacker and we are excited to welcome a player of his caliber and qualities. We are confident he will prove to be a great fit into how we play and will help us achieve our ambitions as a club in the years to come.”
After helping Stanford University win three national championships during his time there, as well as three successful seasons in Utah, hopefully, his addition can help LAFC win an MLS Cup. Welcome to the Black and Gold Corey Baird!
