I'd agree with this assesment that Ray is trying to really make every roster spot (even the so-called "developmental" spots) count this year. He's looking for guys that could step in and play sometime during the MLS season or during cup matches, rather than taking flyers on people to develop down the road. In MLS, where it's a one, maybe two year game, this could be the right approach. Heck, Marc (not with the wussy "k") Connonly liked the deal.
Good analysis and spot on in all viewpoints.Even Rays bottom-roster moves are compelling and looking very shrewd trades.
I have a couple comments about this article. First, the comment about only 1 roster and 2 development slots left to fill. I think there are several players currently playing for their lives at DCU. If I'm Chino, Ali, and Namoff, I'd have my agent looking for A-league opportunities (of course other MLS teams don't have our depth so they could remain in Div 1). If either of the invited TI's in camp impress they get picked up and one or more of these guys is gone. I like all of them but its clear that Ray wants the absolute best team he can put on the field now -- top to bottom. DCU is in business to win and only the best will be on Ray's team. Top to bottom DCU will have one of the best rosters in league this year. I think all three players mentioned as vying for the final two developmental slots will stay. One of them, probably Warren, will be on full roster (might change if MLS and A-league get player share agreement so Warren gets some live play). Woody and Swann fill in the development slots. Really this is shell game and any combination of these guys might fill out final roster slot. As sure as I know I'm typing this -- Digi will end up elsewhere. Finally, I still think Harkes (unless he falls on his face during workouts) makes this team. I'm betting that he still has some good play left and with his experience and heart, Ray picks him over one of the younger guys I mentioned earlier.