Geelong grab Smith from Bulldogs

THE Geelong Cats finally got their man, with Western Bulldogs young gun Bailey Smith to don the hoops in 2025 and beyond.

A deal was struck in the dying minutes of the AFL trade period, with the Cats sending pick 17 and 38 to the Dogs for Smith and pick 45 in return.

The 23-year-old’s signature was a top priority for the Cats over the past fortnight.

Geelong general manager of football Andrew Mackie said securing Smith was a great outcome.

“We’re excited Bailey will be wearing the hoops from 2025 and beyond. At just 23 he is a talented player whose attributes gives us on-field flexibility and he will complement our current playing group.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Bailey into our football club and our broader Geelong community.”

Smith was selected with pick 7 in the 2018 NAB AFL Draft and played 103 games for the Dogs over the past six years.

He missed the full 2024 season due to an ACL injury, but is a likely starter in Round 1, 2025, with his recovery reportedly going very well.

Smith said he was rapt to be donning the hoops.

“It’s surreal. It hasn’t properly sunk in. I’m super grateful.

“There is plenty of talent already prevalent in the list and the future is super exciting. The way the Cats go about footy, but more importantly life drew me in most.

“I’m fully fit and ready to go. I can’t wait for day one of pre-season to start. I’m itching for it!”

During the Trade Period, the Cats showed interest in signing Melbourne Demons midfielder Clayton Oliver, but a deal did not eventuate.

The club will also land former Carlton utility Jack Martin as a delisted free agent in November.

Leading into the Telstra AFL Draft on November 20 and November 21, Geelong’s picks are 45, 57, 75 and 93.