Worst MLS Designated Player Signings in History

By Matthew Nelson | Sep 28, 2016

Apr 15, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Los Angeles Galaxy defender Jelle Van Damme (37) took down Houston Dynamo forward Erick Torres (9) in a slide tackle in the second half at BBVA Compass Stadium. Galaxy won 4 to 1. Mandatory Credit: Thomas B. Shea-USA TODAY Sports /

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Kris Boyd – Portland Timbers

Kris Boyd played with the Portland Timbers only for the 2012 season. When he signed, he became the club’s second designated player. Boyd is one of the most prolific strikers in Scottish football history and before his move to Portland, he scored 164 goals in his 296 appearances in the Scottish Premier league as well as 7 goals in 18 Scottish National Team appearances.

After being expected to lead the Timbers‘ front line of attack, Kris Boyd only scored a modest 7 goals in 26 appearances, not enough for his $1.5 million per season contract. The Timbers cut ties with him at the end of the 2012 season. He then went to play for Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premier League where in 44 appearances he scored 25 goals.

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