NASHVILLE, TN – On Wednesday, Nashville SC officially announced the signing of Reed Baker-Whiting from the Seattle Sounders.
The 20-year-old defender and midfielder joins in a cash transfer for $800,000. The Sounders will receive an additional $300,000 if Baker-Whiting reaches certain performance-based benchmarks, and retain a sell-on percentage if he is transferred outside of MLS. He will occupy a U22 Initiative roster spot for Nashville.
"Reed is an exciting young talent that has a bright future, and we think that he’s a great fit for what we are looking for on and off the field," said Nashville SC President of Soccer Operations and General Manager Mike Jacobs in the club's release. "His versatility to be able to play on both the left and the right, as well as in defense and in midfield, puts him in position to be a key contributor in our group."
Baker-Whiting came through the Sounders academy, signing as a homegrown and making his MLS debut in 2021 at just 16 years old. In the past four seasons, he's made 79 appearances at the MLS level, scoring a goal and adding three assists. He's also a United States youth international, appearing at the 2025 FIFA U20 World Cup alongside Nashville's Matt Corcoran.
Baker-Whiting is capable of playing at either right- or left-back, as well as further forward on the wings. He'll provide much-needed depth behind Dan Lovitz and Andy Nájar, with the ability to challenge for starting minutes.
