Roster Updates

Badji out, Acosta in

kellyn-acosta-usa-gold-cup

F.C. Dallas and U.S. Men’s National Team midfielder Kellyn Acosta has been traded to the Colorado Rapids, the club announced Monday.

In exchange, Colorado parts ways with leading goalscorer Dominique Badji and an international roster slot. The clubs have also agreed “to swap first round picks in the 2019 MLS SuperDraft,” while Colorado receives FCD’s second round selection. Both teams “will retain 50% of any international transfer value through the 2020 secondary transfer window.”

Badji was a polarizing figure at Dick Sporting Goods Park. While the striker exhibited exemplary speed and strength, his technical ability and finishing left quite a lot to be desired. Nevertheless, he still managed to top the Rapids’ scoring charts in a season where goals have been quite hard to come by.

In gaining Acosta, the Rapids receive a promising U.S. international with experience in central midfield and at wide back. Heralded as the future USMNT’s primary box-to-box midfielder, Acosta is expected to play a similar role for Colorado. Indeed, a Kellyn Acosta/Jack Price partnership in midfield certainly looks like the most compelling option for the Rapids.

Rapids General Manager Padraig Smith praised Acosta, saying the midfielder “ is one of the bright young players in U.S. Soccer” and provides Colorado with “versatility in the midfield.”

The question at this point for the Burgundy Boys is “where will the goals come from?” With Badji sold and Mason recalled, the Rapids’ leading threats are now Jack McBean, Edgar Castillo, and Tommy Smith (2 goals apiece).

Colorado still has an international slot and a Designated Player spot open on their roster. Whether or not the club will feel compelled to utilize them is another discussion entirely.

Image Credit: Sports Illustrated

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