07/08/2026
Bake!!!! Let’s go!!
CHOCTAW ALUM: This year’s MLB All-Star Game will feature a point of pride for Fort Walton Beach.
Bryan Baker, a former Choctaw baseball player and Tampa Bay Rays relief pitcher, was named to the American League All-Star roster and will participate in the game July 14 at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia.
Baker has deep roots in the area. He was born and raised in Fort Walton Beach and attended Choctawhatchee High School, Class of 2013. He played both basketball and baseball for the Indians, developing into the team’s staff ace, with his best year at Choctaw coming during his senior season in 2013.
Baker was drafted in the 40th round of the 2013 MLB draft by the Pittsburgh Pirates but chose not to sign, instead opting to play college baseball at the University of North Florida.
In July 2025, Baker was traded to the Rays, and this season he is in the midst of a breakout year as Tampa Bay’s closer.
Full story from Travis Espy: https://getthecoast.com/choctaw-alum-bryan-baker-named-to-2026-mlb-all-star-game/