FC Cincinnati sign free agent F Corey Baird through 2025

FC Cincinnati announced the signing Thursday of free agent forward Corey Baird through the 2025 season.

The deal includes a 2026 option for the 27-year-old veteran who spent the past three seasons with the Houston Dynamo.

Baird set a career high with 14 goal involvements (eight goals, six assists) in 34 matches for the Dynamo in 2023.

He has 28 goals and 25 assists in 161 appearances (119 starts) with Real Salt Lake (2018-20), LAFC (2021) and the Dynamo (2021-23).

"We're excited to bring Corey to Cincinnati," general manager Chris Albright said. "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 was the MLS Rookie of the Year in 2018 and helped the Dynamo win the U.S. Open Cup in 2023.

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

The reigning Supporters' Shield champions open the 2024 MLS season on Feb. 25 at home against Toronto FC.