The East Fife gaffer says he's seen enough of his players already this season to convince him that, should he eventually have a full-strength squad to choose from, they can continue their assault on the Second Division title.
Baikie insists his side was unlucky not to take something from Saturday's derby match but was left to curse several missed opportunities in the opening stages.
On Monday, he told the Mail: "I was very disappointed with the result because I thought we started really well.
"We were by far the best side and I think we had something like eight or nine corners and put them under a lot of pressure.
"But we didn't get the rub of the green and then they scored against the run of play.
"The shot ended up ricocheting off Steven Tweed and Kevin Fotheringham, so that was a bit unlucky.
"I was disappointed to lose the goal from the free kick because we should have had somebody standing over the ball, but we allowed them to take it quickly.
"But they are top of the league and I didn't think there was much between the teams, so that shows we're not a million miles away.
"We've also been playing without a settled back four for a few games now as well."
And Baikie is unlikely to have his recognised back four available on Saturday against Brechin, with Steven Tweed injured against Raith and Jon Smart also definitely missing.
Chris Templeman, who has been deputising in defence recently, also suffered a knock and is doubtful.
However, Bobby Linn should be available for the away trip as it appears he only suffered a bad kick to the ankle and not ligament damage, as was first feared.
Brechin are currently joint top with Raith and Baikie is sure the trip north will be tricky.
He said: "It's important that we go and get something but there's still a long, long way to go in this league yet.
"When we've got the players available, we're a match for anybody so I'm looking forward to the rest of season."