FC Cincinnati sign free agent striker Corey Baird to two-year contract

FC Cincinnati have signed free-agent striker Corey Baird on a free transfer from Houston Dynamo on a two-year contract through the 2025 MLS season with an option for 2026.

Baird joins the Orange and Blue after spending the last two-and-a-half years with the Dynamo, where he netted 14 goals in his season with the Western Conference team in 2023 as they came up short in the Western Conference final.

"We're excited to bring Corey to Cincinnati," general manager Chris Albright said in a release.

"He is a player with a versatile skillset and an eye for goal who will be a valuable addition to our attack. He's a proven winner with great character, and we'd like to welcome him and his family to the club."

Baird brings plenty of MLS experience to Cincinnati, as he's now set to play for his fourth MLS side after stints with Real Salt Lake, LAFC and the previously mentioned Dynamo. Baird arrives after the departure of striker Brandon Vazquez to Liga MX giants Monterrey, and he's expected to fill in up front for the former Atlanta United figure who scored 17 goals last term.

"I couldn't be more excited to join FC Cincinnati and meet the fans and my teammates," Baird added.

"It's really exciting to join a club with one of the best fanbases and the best stadiums in the league, and I can’t wait to challenge for trophies this year."

In total, Baird has managed 161 league appearances (119 starts), scoring 28 goals and adding 25 assists. The 27-year-old was part of the Dynamo squad that won 2023 US Open Cup over Inter Miami, a first trophy since their 2018 US Open triumph.

Baird is set to linkup with MLS MVP Lucho Acosta and Aaron Boupendza for the 2024 MLS campaign following Cincinnati lifting their first-ever trophy in the form of the Supporters' Shield last season. Baird's arrival is FCC's second big free-agent signing of the offseason after Miles Robinson joined to partner the backline alongside 2023 Defender of the Year Matt Miazga.