Notwithstanding the frustration high-flying, young Richmond forward Jacob Bauer experienced in season 2024 because of his inability to get on the playing field for much of it, he will head into 2025 with a good level of confidence.

That is as a result of what he was able to produce across the final three home-and-away rounds in the Tigers’ senior side.

They were the only AFL games Bauer played for the season after enduring hamstring issues.

Although Bauer’s statistical numbers weren’t off the charts in those three senior appearances, he did showcase his marking ability and capacity for kicking goals.

The 22-year-old booted four goals in those three games (two v St Kilda, Round 22 and two v Gold Coast, Round 24) and was ranked third in the competition for contested marks per game.

“Just taking little bits and pieces out of all three games, I know that I can be a solid contributor at AFL level. So, it’s definitely exciting heading into next year,” he told Richmond Media.

Bauer is keen to parlay his promising finish to this season into something considerably more significant in 2025.

“Find my spot in the side and keep it for all the year, is my goal,” he said.

“Playing three games this year was awesome, but I want to play 23 games.

“Get the boys back to the top end of the ladder and, hopefully for myself, stick in the side all year.”