Grading Five of MLS’ Summer Transfers

Who made the best deals this summer?

As we move into the second half of the MLS season, teams have tried to reinforce their teams to make their playoff runs. Last year, bringing in Nicolas Lodiero was part of a huge turnaround for the Seattle Sounders that they rode all the way to an MLS Cup. Is anyone making a deal that could create a similar turnaround?

Dom Dwyer to Orlando City

The only MLS to MLS deal of the bunch, and it was record breaking. Dwyer made his debut against Atlanta in a 1-1 draw. It was a glimse into what a Dwyer and Cyle Larin partnership could look like. While there is still no telling how long it will last, they need to take advantage of it while they can.

Dwyer looked active and had some opportunities, but hasn’t played in a two striker system, and neither has Larin. So the system could have some growing pains. By the time things are figured out there might be a deal for Larin too good to turn down.

Grade: B

Larrys Mabiala to Portland Timbers

It was no secret, the Timbers needed a centerback and they got one. Since then Mabiala has played in three games, and the results have been, well, mixed. They have four points in three matches and allowed seven goals.

Mabiala comes in with a lot of experience from Europe but in this small sample size in MLS has shown that doesn’t mean an immediate turn around.

Grade: C-

Tomas Martinez to Houston Dynamo

The Dynamo got a young attacking player they needed. Youth and playmaking always excites a fan base, but what will it do for the play on the field? Martinez has limited professional experience and has yet to make his MLS debut. Then we can have a much better idea of how impactful Martinez is.

Grade: B-

Victor Rodriguez to the Seattle Sounders

This could be an example of fixing something that isn’t broken. The Sounders have started to really click, and players are fitting into roles well. With Rodriguez coming in, it could bring added options to the Sounders attack, but could create a log jam in the attack.

Grade: C+

Jonathan Dos Santos

This works from a marketing perspective, which the Galaxy regularly nail. It works from an on the field perspective with Dos Santos’ versatility. It’s also the biggest name coming into MLS this summer. With 27 appearances for Mexico and over 80 appearances in Spain. Dos Santos is the biggest name coming into MLS and should make a big impact in the western conference.

Grade: A