The identity and history of the Baffler prior to his appearance in 1949 is unknown. He is first encounter in January of that year in which he and his man rob a shop in the suburbs of New York City.  Using a novel explosion that makes no sounds, the criminals manage to blow a safe without a passing police officer being any the wiser.  Absconding on roller skates with the stolen loot, they are observed by Paul Dennis, secretly Robotman, who changes into his robotic form to give chase.  Recognizing their pursuer, the criminals taunt Robotman and activate rockets in their skates, accelerating them to great speed.  Robotman, however, is able to run 100 mph and gain on them, prompting the Baffler to unleashed a magnetizing powder that binds Robotman to a light pole.  Unable to extricate himself, Robotman is forced to uproot the lamp post while the Baffler and his henchmen escape.

Robotman decides he needs a bag of tricks of his own and creates a tool kit to counter the Baffler's weapons.  For several days, he patrols the city waiting for the Baffler's next move.  Eventually, the criminals target J. Mark Jewelers. cleaning out its vault.  Attracted to the sound of their skate rockets, Robotman charges into actions.  Seeing him, the criminals divert into a darkened tunnel but Robotman pulls high beams that he attaches to his face, illuminating the tunnel.  Cornered, the Baffler and gang flee out in a storm, hoping the lightning in the area will be attracted to Robotman's body.  After an initial strike, Robotman again consults his tool kit for a lightning rod that grounds further bolts.  With Robotman gaining again, the Baffler unleashes rocket-driven rotary saw blades that cut off Robotman's feet.  Again, the hero has a solution, attaching wheels to the stumps of his calves.  Reaching his hideout, the Baffler is out of tricks and Robotman overtaken and handed over to the police. (Detective Comics #143).

The further activities of Baffler on Earth-Two are not recorded.