Emiliano Grillo has become a recognizable name on the PGA Tour, known for his ball-striking prowess and steady play. But behind every great player is a skilled caddie who quietly helps guide the way.
For Grillo, that man is James Baker, an experienced bagman with a rich background in professional golf.
Here are five essential facts that illustrate why Baker is such a respected figure and how his presence shapes Grillo’s career.
1. Baker Brings Years of European Tour Experience
GettyMatthias Schwab of Austria takes advice from his caddie, James Baker during Day Two of The 149th Open at Royal St George’s Golf Club on July 16, 2021.
Few caddies on the PGA Tour boast a resume as deep as James Baker’s. He has been a constant presence on the European Tour (now the DP World Tour), working alongside a string of accomplished players. Names like Matthias Schwab, David Horsey, Simon Dyson, Jamie Donaldson, Lee Westwood, and Martin Kaymer highlight the level of talent Baker has supported over the years. His experience covers both European and global events, giving him unique insight into various course styles and conditions.
Baker’s career isn’t just about longevity—it’s marked by significant victories. One of his standout moments came in 2020 when he caddied for Lee Westwood to a win at the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship. He’s also been part of team successes in events like the World Cup and the Seve Trophy. Such achievements speak volumes about his ability to help players perform under the brightest lights—a quality that serves Grillo well as he aims for more PGA Tour success.
2. Passions Outside of the Golf Course
Golf isn’t the only sport that fuels Baker. A dedicated runner, he has shared posts about his training miles and running adventures on Instagram, including endurance efforts in places like Cumbria. For Baker, running serves as both physical training and mental release.
Equally central to his identity is football, and specifically, Manchester United. A die-hard fan of the Premier League giants, Baker enjoys following matches, attending games at Old Trafford whenever he’s home in England. Supporting United provides him with an emotional outlet, camaraderie, and a touch of normalcy, even when he’s traveling the world for work.
3. Part of The Tour Experience Group
Baker is a member of The Tour Experience, a collective of more than 40 European Tour caddies who offer professional guidance, mental coaching, and insights to players looking for an edge. This group emphasizes not only technical aspects of caddying but also the mental and psychological side of golf, which can be the difference between winning and merely making the cut.
Baker’s involvement in The Tour Experience signals his commitment to evolving in his craft. Modern caddying is as much about course strategy as it is about keeping a player mentally composed during tough stretches. The insights Baker draws from this group can directly benefit Grillo, particularly during the stressful moments that define professional tournaments. It also highlights how seriously Baker takes his role. He’s not just carrying a bag; he’s an integral part of the performance team.
4. Hailing From Wilmslow, England
Baker hails from Wilmslow, a market town in Cheshire, England. This detail appears on his official X profile, where he lists Wilmslow as his home base. The town sits just south of Manchester, which helps explain his deep loyalty to Manchester United and his connection to the local sporting culture.
Growing up near Manchester likely immersed Baker in both golf and football from a young age. Wilmslow itself is known for its proximity to quality golf courses, and being part of England’s northwest sports scene provided fertile ground for developing his passion for athletics. Today, he carries that local pride with him as he travels the world caddying for some of golf’s top players.
5. A Devoted Family Man
In June 2021, Baker married his partner, Laura. Since then, he has occasionally offered small glimpses into his personal life on social media, including being a father to a young son named Xander.
While Baker keeps his family largely private, the few moments he shares hint at a man deeply committed to life off the course. Balancing the relentless travel schedule of a tour caddie with family responsibilities is no small feat. Yet those closest to him say Baker’s family provides the grounding and perspective he needs to remain level-headed in a sport defined by highs and lows. His devotion to his wife and child underscores that even in a life spent amid fairways and greens, home remains his most important destination.
James Baker, Emiliano Grillo’s Caddie: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know