in the 2012–13 season, baldwin found himself in and out of the first team, where he was often featured on the substitute bench. after being suspended for one match and appearing three times as an unused substitute on the bench, baldwin scored his first senior goal in a 2–1 defeat to a.f.c. bournemouth in january 2013 and then scored again, four days later in a 3–1 win away to portsmouth. baldwin then set up a double for three goals, in a 3–0 win over crewe alexandra on 26 february 2013. however, during a 0–0 draw against colchester united on 5 march 2013, he injured his right knee and was substituted before half-time. initially out for the rest of the season, baldwin returned to the training soon after and played his first match in weeks on 29 march 2013, in a 2–0 loss against mk dons. at the end of the 2012–13 season, baldwin went on to make thirty-five appearances and scoring twice times in all competitions.