Another day, another signing for Orlando City.
Jordan Bender
The former OCB and Orlando City Academy midfielder joins the team on a homegrown contract. That's right, we've signed another homegrown player. That makes 4 since Muzzi has taken over as GM. I'm all for these types of transfers as they're cheap, fill up a roster spot, and help the individuals grow. It also shows future academy players that there is a pathway to the first team. Don't let that go unnoticed. Maybe we find the next Alphonso Davies and instead of him opting for a different academy, he sees that he has a path to the first team and decides to fight for his spot here.
As for Jordan himself, he is a promising RM who will be able to fill in whenever someone needs a rest. As we've seen time and time again, MLS can throw games at us thick and fast so rotation will be key to a successful year. Look at LAFC. They probably had the deepest squad in terms of quality and they were far and away the best team in the regular season last year. Jordan will add to our depth as well as gain valuable experience throughout the season. Oh, and don't be surprised if he pulls a Benji and forces his way into the starting lineup near the end of the season (especially if we don't sign a starting RW).
US Open Cup
It looks like we will be playing in the 3rd round of the US Open Cup due to our placement in the league table last season. Even though we made the semifinals, we will have to play an extra game in the tournament. I'm not a fan of this. We already have enough games as it is. This is where players like Loera and Bender will see some strong minutes.
Denil Maldonado
Reports have rapidly picked up today that Maldonado will be an Orlando City player in the near future. Like I said yesterday, I would love for this deal to go through.
'Til next time, this has been Gavin Rushnell and #VamosOlrando