2008 MLS Preview, Pt. 3: The Final Four

Colorado Rapids

Key Acquisition(s)

Rafael Gomes, Christian Gomez, Jose Luis Burciaga Jr. 

Key Loss(es)

Nicolas Hernandez, Zach Thornton, Jose Cancela, Brandon Prideaux 

 Last season was a rough one offensively for the Rapids, they had a pretty good year at the back all things considered, it comes down to this if Gomes, and Gomez and Gomez,  can score goals, if they can the playoffs will follow, if not then another long season awaits.

Prediction

playoffs, 8th overall

FC Dallas

Key Acquisition(s)

Danny Davino, Andre Rocha, Josh Lambo 

Key Loss(es)

Carlos Ruiz, Chris Gbandi, Clarence Goodson, Denilson

Dallas, last year was a sturdy back-line away from the a semi finals birth. Now however they are going to be a more balanced side, but one that will be worse for wear. Kenny Cooper will be looked to, as they begin life without Carlos Ruiz. Watch out for Ray Burse to overtake Dario Sala later this season. 

Prediction

no playoffs, 9th overall  

San Jose Earthquake

Key Acquisition(s)

Joe Cannon, Ryan Cochrane, Ned Grabavoy, Gavin Glinton, Kei Kamara, Shea Salianas, Nick Garcia 

Key Loss(es)

N/A  

Frank Yallop returns to San Jose to man the Earthquake, the expansion franchise i think will play very well, but there lack of any sort of depth, with just a 14 man roster as it currently sits will keep them from being overly competitive.

Prediction

no playoffs 12th overall 

Kansas City Wizards

Key Acquisition(s) 

Claudio Lopez, Ivan Trujillo, Chance Myers, Roger Espinoza 

Key Loss(es)

Eddie Johnson, Nick Garcia, Jose Luis Burciaga Jr

With the loss of Eddie Johnson, If the Wizards are going to go back to the playoffs its going to be on the back of Claudio Lopez the former Racing, and America(MEX) player will have to be the taker of many of Eddie's goals, Seally and Conrad will have to contribute more, this will most likely be an adjustment year for KC.

Prediction

no playoffs, 13th place