Liam Baker met with both West Coast and Fremantle in 2022, before he decided to remain with Richmond, where he had played in premierships in 2019 and 2020.

West Coast were the stronger suitor then, even though an improved Fremantle played finals that year while the Eagles were in the early phase of a scorched earth recession that has not abated.

Richmond’s Liam Baker is hot property.Credit: AFL Photos

Baker, weighing up his options as judiciously as he does on the field, just couldn’t leave Tigerland. Loyalty to teammates and comfort in the Richmond environment prevailed.

But in an era when top-shelf players are routinely given seven- and eight-year deals – long enough to see off a few prime ministers and Carlton coaches – Baker signed only for two seasons. He had the currency to secure a five-year contract if he wished.

So, he kept his options open.

In 2024, Baker has another call to make on whether he wishes to remain at Richmond or return to his home state of Western Australia, for family, friends and farm (Baker, like Fremantle champion, Nat Fyfe hails from Lake Grace).

There are a few considerations in Baker’s call.

The first one will be personal. Does he want to go home?

QOSHE - The bidding war for Richmond’s fabulous Baker boy - Jake Niall
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The bidding war for Richmond’s fabulous Baker boy

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13.04.2024

Liam Baker met with both West Coast and Fremantle in 2022, before he decided to remain with Richmond, where he had played in premierships in 2019 and 2020.

West Coast were the stronger suitor then, even though an improved Fremantle played finals that year while the Eagles were in the early phase of a........

© The Sydney Morning Herald


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