Deep thoughts about MLS moves

Alright folks, as most of you can tell, my blog thrives on interviews and analysis from experts and fans. But while I am waiting on replies to my flurries of questions, I will, from time to time, offer my own take on MLS.

The last few weeks have given risen to some interesting developments in what is sure to be an action packed off season-- so here are my thoughts on the recent trades and moves around MLS:


Move #1: Ruiz to Galaxy:

The audacity of this trade has actually put me at ease, for the Galaxy's role in MLS
is now abundantly clear: the team we love to hate. Baseball has the Yankees, the NASL
had the Cosmos and now it is Alexi Lalas and CO's turn to be the "super rival" for every
club in MLS—which makes their struggles on the pitch all the more amusing.

This trade also tells me Lalas will be pulling the strings in LA for time. While undoubtedly talented, is also a polarizing figure which I am sure also played in to trade. Even with Ruiz grandfathered in however, I fail to see how the Galaxy could fit his salary under the cap. In final analysis however, the fact that the Galaxy even tried to land Ruiz says they will inevitably land an expensive DPish type forward (possible Zurwaski from Celtic). Whoever comes on board is in for some abuse come next season.

Move #2: Boswell to Houston/Wells and draft pick to United

My first thought about this trade was something is in the kool-aid over at United. On paper, the trade of the 2006 defender of the year for a back up goalkeeper and a draft pick looks like an absolute steal for Houston. On the other hand, United—whose scouting system is amongst the best in MLS-- it could well be preparing to sign a foreign defender after their recent scouting trip to South America.

For United, this move would actually pay dividends if this can be done with the money saved from Perkin’s sale and salary. In Wells, they are getting a proven starter hungry for playing time, while the offloading an unhappy player. In final analysis, United will now certainly shell out for a central defender and possibly a fullback before next season to shore up an aging backline.

Move #3: Osorio to NYRB:

This move is a winner for both Osorio and the Red Bulls, Chicago got hosed. Going back to the situation with the Galaxy, the best talent and coaching will inevitably gravitate towards the money and prestige, leading to a greater disparity in style of play and personnel.

While this fact must be particularly frustrating for Chicago fans at the moment, they have been left with a solid team and a system that works. For the Red Bulls, the search continues for a playmaking midfielder, outside backs and a central defender. In this regard, the team actually took a hit by giving away their highest draft pick.

On top of that, it will be interesting to observe the way Osorio handles the over burden of Red Bull fueled expectation (and the meddling of Mark DeGrandpre). If things go as scripted, Osorio’s first order of business may be to raid his old club for talent.

While Conde, though an excellent defender, is unlikely to leave this season due to his contract situation, NYRB fans could see the likes of Jim Curtin (promising central defender but recently out of favor), or even Gonzalo Segares in RB colors next season.

Having worked with Claudio Reyna in the past, Osorio’s arrival likely means the troubled midfielder will likely be around for 2008. But after focusing Chicago’s offense through a playmaker last season, it will be interesting to observe whether Osorio opts for this strategy or works with what he is given (strength down the flanks). If he decides to cross the ball, this makes left back and midfield a priority.