Baker Cleared to Play
June 29, 2002 - arenafootball2 (af2)
Rochester Brigade News Release
(Rochester, NY)-Rochester Brigade head coach and general manager Mark Saunders announced on Friday that WR/DB Derek Baker has been cleared by the team doctor and will play in this weekend's game against the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Pioneers.
"It's great to have Derek (Derek Baker) back in the lineup... he's such an important part of this team's success on both sides of the football," stated Saunders. "As long as he's healthy, he's going to help us win some games and make a series run at the playoffs."
Baker suffered a concussion back on June 1, which was the last time the Brigade and the Pioneers met. Late in the fourth quarter, Baker collided head first into the boards when he attempted to make a catch. Baker, who showed signs of a spinal contusion, has been out of the lineup for the last four games, all of which the Brigade lost. He has been undergoing tests since the concussion and has showed no signs of injury since. Baker passed a nerve test earlier in the week and an MRI on Friday afternoon to clear him.
Since joining the Brigade back on May 8, Baker played in four games, where he caught 33 passes for 386 yards and ten touchdowns. He also registered 13 tackles, one interception and four pass breakups to earn him the title as âGame IRONMAN' in two of the games. In the four games that Baker played, the Brigade tallied three wins in a row; nevertheless, the loss came in the same game that Baker suffered his concussion.
Tonight the Brigade plays their final home game of the regular season against the Pioneers in a crucial match-up for both teams. In the scenario that these two teams are tied for second place of the division at the end of the regular season, the winner of this series will advance. The pre-game party kicks off at 6:00 pm and game time is set for 7:30 pm. Plenty of good seats still remain! Get your tickets now by calling 585-292-1530 or check out the team's website at www.rochesterbrigade.com.
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