The second phase of the Re-Entry Process has come and gone and just as the Reds remained stagnant in the first stage, Toronto has chosen to pass on the list of available players.
“We have carefully weighed the cost and benefit of bringing in a player through this process and decided to pass at this time,” said interim director Earl Cochrane.
“We have to consider salary demands and weigh it against a player’s age and the specific playing style we are looking to implement for next season.”
The two biggest names available in the draft, New York marksman Juan Pablo Angel and Trillium Cup rival Guillermo Barros Schelotto of Columbus are respectively 35 and 37-years old. They also command a hefty wage bill.
“We are also in a transition process,” Cochrane continued, “where we can’t saddle the incoming coach or manager with key pieces that may not fit his vision. We have to be cautious with those types of signings.”
That being said, the front office hasn’t been quiet this fall. Cochrane revealed that there are 10-12 players Toronto has looked at closely and while they haven’t yet put ink to paper, the club has done all the background work necessary to pick up these pieces should they fit the bill.
“There are four or five key roster pieces we are looking to fill and a plan is in process. We have done everything short of signing these players as we want to be in a position to fill these spots once the manager is hired.”
Cochrane also intimated that these players could be acquired through a combination of free agent signings and loan deals – the latter option rarely pursued by Toronto in the last four years while some MLS teams have prospered going down this path.
NOTES:
Angel was selected fifth overall by Los Angeles, one place ahead of Toronto's pick. The Galaxy traded up to receive a chance to negotiate with the Colombian ... Former TFC defender Tyrone Marshall was selected by MLS Cup champion Colorado where he will be reunited with Marvell Wynne should the the Rapids come to terms with the Jamaican international ... Former Toronto forward Jeff Cunningham was picked up by Columbus where he once spent seven seasons.
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