Fletcher Baker’s Sudden Exit from the Bulldogs
Fletcher Baker, a 26-year-old forward, has reportedly become the second player to leave the Bulldogs in just two weeks. His departure comes as he has made an immediate move to Manly, marking a significant shift in his rugby league career.
Baker initially signed with Canterbury during the off-season after spending two years at the Broncos. However, he struggled to break into the first-grade team at the Bulldogs and spent most of his time playing in the NSW Cup. On Tuesday, the accounts ‘League Unlimited’ and ‘League Scene’ reported that Baker had left the Bulldogs immediately to join Manly.
According to reports, Baker will play for the Sea Eagles’ NSW Cup team this weekend. Notably, the No.10 position for Manly’s team has been left blank, suggesting that his arrival could have a significant impact on the team’s lineup.
The ‘League Unlimited’ account stated: “Canterbury forward Fletcher Baker has abruptly left just six months after joining the Belmore club. He’s been picked up by Manly and will line up at prop for their NSW Cup side this Saturday against the Rabbitohs.”
Yahoo Sport Australia has contacted the Bulldogs for comment.
Baker’s career includes 45 NRL games for the Roosters from 2021 to 2023, followed by 14 games for the Broncos across 2024 and 2025. His move to Manly is expected to provide the Sea Eagles with much-needed depth in the front row. He could be called upon if Kobe Hetherington or Ethan Bullemor are selected to play for Queensland in State of Origin.
A Growing Trend of Player Exoduses
Baker’s exit is the second in two weeks for the Bulldogs, following the departure of Daniel Suluka-Fifita, who signed with St Helens in the Super League. Like Baker, Suluka-Fifita struggled to crack the Bulldogs’ first-grade side.
Suluka-Fifita will replace Matty Lees at St Helens, with Lees signing to join the PNG Chiefs from 2028. St Helens head coach Paul Rowley said: “On behalf of everybody at the club, I’d like to welcome Daniel to St Helens, and we look forward to seeing him in the Red V. After a difficult run with injuries has stretched the squad this season, it’s great to bring in a player of Daniel’s quality and character.”
The Bulldogs have experienced a wave of departures this season. In April, teenage fullback prodigy David Bryenton also quit the club. Bryenton gained attention for starring for Keebra Park High School as they won the National Schoolboys Cup in 2025. He then signed a development deal with the Bulldogs but left the club in the pre-season to return to Queensland.
Impact on the Bulldogs
The recent exodus of players has raised concerns about the Bulldogs’ stability and performance. With multiple key players leaving, the team may face challenges in maintaining its competitive edge in the NRL. The loss of experienced forwards like Baker and Suluka-Fifita, along with the departure of young talent like Bryenton, could have long-term implications for the club.
As the Bulldogs continue to navigate these changes, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team adapts to the new landscape. The coming seasons will be crucial in determining whether the club can recover from this period of instability and regain its former strength.
