In the 1910 Grand Final between Carlton and Collingwood he was reported for striking by umpire Jack Elder, and suspended for the entire 1911 VFL season.

Collingwood appealed the ban and it was overturned, after teammate Richard Daykin signed a declaration which stated that it was he and not Baxter who had struck Jack Baquie.

This incident is said to be central to, or even the specific origin of, the long-standing rivalry which still exists between the clubs.

His performance attracted controversy, with a widespread rumour hinting that he was bribed to play "dead".

Baxter twice kicked into the man on the mark in the vital last quarter, as well as missing three easy chances to score a goal.