MLS SuperDraft Review: Philadelphia Union
By Zach Lahey
On January 13th, the Philadelphia Union had two of the first six overall picks in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft. The Union easily had the best spot in the draft.
When the SuperDraft started, Philadelphia contained another first round pick specifically the No. 2 overall pick. They traded Zach Pfeffer and general allocation money to the Colorado Rapids.
In 2015, the Union struggled both offensively and defensively. They scored a total of 42 goals and allowed 55. These numbers were some of the lowest totals in Major League Soccer.
Other than C.J Sapong, they did not have a forward who was a goal scoring threat. The defense needed improvements especially at the outside back position. Earnie Stewart and company knew they needed to improve on both sides of the ball. Did they select players that would improve the club?
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Picks:
No. 2: Joshua Yaro CB
The Union received this pick from Colorado and it was the biggest steal of the SuperDraft. Many people believed Yaro was going to be selected No.1 overall but, Chicago went in a different direction. Stewart grabbed a great defender who can become an immediate starter. Yaro can help a defense that needs a lot of improvement.
No. 3: Keegan Rosenberry RB
Philadelphia attempted to put a homegrown tag on Rosenberry before the draft but it was rejected. It did not matter and the Union got the man they wanted. Rosenberry is a great right back and it helps that he will be playing with his former Georgetown teammate Joshua Yaro. The only concern is the Union passed on Brandon Vincent. In the next ten years, the fans will find out if Stewart made the right choice of picking Rosenberry over Vincent.
No.6: Fabian Herbers F
Herbers was arguably the best offensive player in the draft. The Union desperately needed a forward who could play immediately beside Sapong. The team only scored 42 goals last season which was an Eastern Conference low. Herbers will bring a playing style similar to Kenny Cooper, who was a tremendous goal scorer in his prime.
No. 23: Taylor Washington LB
Washington was an underrated player in the draft. He was one of the best left backs available. Even though Rosenberry will most likely be an immediate starter, Washington will bring depth to the fullback position. He had a great college career and do not be surprised if he breaks out in the next couple years.
No. 44: Mitchell Lurie CB
Lurie was the Union’s 4th round pick. He had a great career at Rutgers University. Lurie is a natural defender who can keep possession. Will he start for the Union next season? No, but he will be loaned to Harrisburg City Islanders and get some playing time.
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No. 64: Cole Missimo M
The Union will have a fantastic midfield in 2016. Grabbing another versatile player in Missimo will only benefit the organization. He will also go to Harrisburg and get more playing time.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia needed defensive improvements and they did a great job of filling that need in the SuperDraft. Yaro and Rosenberry will prove to be great additions for the Union in 2016. Expect them to be in the starting XI on opening day. Herbers will bring an offensive explosion off the bench and will lead the Union back to the playoffs. Overall, this SuperDraft was a huge success for Stewart and company.
Final Grade: A