Breaking News: Bombers To Miss Key Player With Return Date Unknown

Essendon’s Kaine Baldwin, a former defender converted from Essendon’s ranks, is facing a spell on the sidelines due to a foot injury discovered this Wednesday.

The stress fracture in his foot means he’s likely to miss the beginning of the upcoming AFL season. The club confirmed this setback on Friday, stating that Baldwin, who has played only eight AFL games over three seasons, will have to sit out initially as he deals with the injury.

According to the club’s announcement, Baldwin felt discomfort in his foot after training, leading to scans that revealed the stress fracture. He’ll need to avoid putting weight on the foot for now and then begin rehabilitation in the following weeks.

A precise timeline for his return will be determined after the initial rest and rehab phase. Baldwin, 21, joined Essendon in 2021 through the Supplemental Selection Period and played predominantly as a defender under coach Brad Scott last season after initially being used as a forward.

Alongside Baldwin’s injury, Essendon is also managing the recoveries of ruckman Sam Draper and midfielder Dylan Shiel, while young forward Jaiden Hunter is recuperating from ACL surgery sustained in the pre-season. The Bombers are scheduled to kick off their 2024 season against the Hawks at the MCG on Saturday, March 16th.