Baker enrolled at Clemson University, where he played college baseball for the Clemson Tigers from 2000-2002. He played as third baseman as well as shortstop. Baker set the school record for career home runs with 59 home runs, a feat he accomplished in three years.
Colorado Rockies
Baker was drafted by the Rockies in 2004 after playing college baseball at Clemson University. While at Clemson, Baker set the school record for career home runs with 59 home runs, a feat he accomplished in three years. He was a three-time Baseball America All-American and a finalist for the Golden Spikes Award in 2002. Baker made his Major League debut in 2005, as the Opening Day third baseman for the Colorado Rockies, playing a total of 12 games. He had been added to the Rockies lineup as a replacement for injured third baseman Garrett Atkins and on the return of Atkins, Baker was assigned to the Colorado Springs Sky Sox, the Rockies Triple-A affiliate. In 2006, Baker played a full season for the Sky Sox, hitting.305 with 20 home runs and 108 runs batted in, playing primarily in right field. He was named to the Baseball America All-Minor League team. He was then called up to the Rockies in early September and was rewarded with significant playing time in right field. Baker has served as a super-utility type player for the Rockies during the 2007–08 seasons. He is able to play all corner positions, and has developed skill at second base. During Spring Training 2008, Baker contended for the starting second baseman spot, but was eventually beaten out by Jayson Nix. After Nix failed to adapt to the major league level, Baker spent the remainder of the season platooning at second base with Clint Barmes and Omar Quintanilla.
Chicago Cubs
On July 2, 2009, Baker was traded to the Chicago Cubs for minor league pitcher Al Alburquerque.
Detroit Tigers
On August 5, 2012, Baker was traded to the Detroit Tigers for two players to be named later. He was designated for assignment on August 31. Baker appeared in 15 games for the Tigers this month after he was acquired from the Cubs. The veteran has played second base and all four corner positions this year, while posting a line of.254/.293/.408 in 181 total plate appearances.
Atlanta Braves
On August 31, 2012, Baker was traded to the Atlanta Braves for a player to be named later, minor league pitcher Greg Ross.
Texas Rangers
In January 2013, Baker was signed by the Texas Rangers to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. He was named to the 2013 Opening Day roster in March. His first hit as a Ranger came on April 13 against the Mariners, and his first home run as a Ranger came on April 19, also against the Mariners. On June 14, he injured his thumb giving a high-five to teammate Craig Gentry, and missed about a month. Used more often against left-handed pitchers, he hit.314/.407/.667 with 10 HR and 18 RBI against them. In 74 games, he hit.279/.360/.545 with 11 HR and 21 RBI. On October 9, Baker was designated for assignment to make room for Matt West, and elected free agency on October 14.
Miami Marlins
In February 2014, Baker agreed to a two-year, $3.7 million contract with the Miami Marlins. He was placed on the disabled list on July 10, 2015, after having strained his left intercostal muscle. He was released on July 31, 2015.
Personal life
Baker is the son of a retired US Armycolonel and is actively involved in the Wounded Warrior Project. During the offseason, his home is in Virginia.
