The Timbers are moving to the MLS in 2011, so who’s coming with them? Let’s get something clear from the start.  Portland wouldn’t be in this position,  on the cusp of a grand entrance and becoming a leading example of what soccer could be across America, if it weren’t for the rich history and passionate foundation that’s been built throughout the years.  From Oregon Soccer Inc to Merritt Paulson, from Vic Crowe to Gavin Wilkinson, from Willie Anderson to Byron Alvarez to Ryan Pore and all the players in between.  From you, the Timber’s loyal supporter, to your father who took you to your first Timber’s game, to you now taking your own child, it’s the decades of hard work, dedication, and support that have paved the road.

Basically, what I’m saying is the car’s packed with fans, the trunk’s full of history, but the road’s wide and long, and there’s always an open seat, so everyone is welcome to come along for the ride.  Unfortunately, since there are only about 30 roster spots on the Timber’s team next season, that’s a different story.

I’ve been waiting a long time to post this, but wanted to make sure and wait for the right time.   With the Timbers about to announce a few player signings Tuesday morning, it seems the timing couldn’t be better.

First, a caveat.  Which players will make the jump to the MLS with Portland will depend heavily on who the team acquires in the expansion and Super drafts, as well as future designated player signings.  If the team signs a few big name defenders for instance, then that will effect the decision to sign current players one way or the other.

Who’s In?
Steve Cronin – Could have been playing in the MLS the last couple seasons, but chose to be the Timber’s starting goalkeeper for experience, more playing time, and a chance to be a part of something special.  He’s a “keeper” for sure.

Ryan Pore – Was there any doubt?

Bright Dike – I’d be shocked if the Timber’s 2nd-half of the season MVP didn’t get a shot in the MLS.  He proved to be a strong talent and should find a contributing role next season.

Kalif Alhassan -   The 19-year old Alhassan is the type of player the Timbers really want – he’s young, cheap, and has the potential to be a big-time player. Displayed fantastic skill and poise in his short run with the team, how can they not offer this kid a contract?

Mamadou “Futty” Danso – The Timber’s defender with the most upside.  Futty showed-off all his talent and potential this season, and even though he missed a lot of games down the stretch and missed the playoffs, he’ll get the chance to prove himself again in the MLS.  At the age of 27, he still has a lot of years left, and should be hitting his prime in the near future.

Who’s on the Bubble?
Ian Joy – The 2010 captain was one of the team’s most consistent and reliable players all season.  He brings a wealth of experience and specifically MLS experience with him, as well as strong leadership qualities.  I also believe he exemplifies the atmosphere and mentality that the franchise is trying  to create.  That being said, I don’t think he’s a total lock.  He’s a bit older, has had injury concerns, and is somewhat undersized physically.  If the team gets a plethora of talent at left-back then Joy could possibly get the short end of the stick.

Kevin Goldthwaite – Brought on late in the year, Goldthwaite is a solid talent with good size, speed, and instincts. He has a lot of MLS experience and had a great showing in the final playoff game against Vancouver, starting and playing the full 90. “Goldy” has very good chance to be on the roster in 2011.   He and Futty would provide a good starting foundation for the middle of the defense.

Ross Smith – The man with the short shorts had a bit of an up and down season.  He also fell out of favor with the coaching staff in the playoffs and that certainly doesn’t help.  However, Smith showed an excellent ability to clear balls in the air and was an effective starter for the most part, when given the chance. A lot will depend on the amount of center-backs the Timbers pick up in the off-season.

Quavas Kirk – Brought in with big expectations and a good amount of hype, Kirk certainly underperformed this year.  However, he has youth on his side and a lot of ability, so don’t count him out.  But I’d be surprised if he made the roster next year.

James Marcelin – There’s a strong chance that Marcelin makes the team next season.  He’ll bring that defensive mentality the Timbers will be looking for and he’s a young player with a lot of upside and potential.  He showed flashes of brilliance all season and seemed to get more comfortable on the offensive side of the ball as the year went on.

Rodrigo Lopez – A young midfielder with upside, Lopez had a good year for the Timbers, and I could see him sliding into a late spot based on his upside and youth alone.  His skill at set pieces are very valuable and he’s a hard worker who’s shown solid progress in his development with the franchise.  Definitely a maybe though.

Alex Nimo – A young prospect with local ties to Portland, you’d think Nimo would be a no-brainer, especially if you would have asked people last year.  But after a mediocre season things have changed a bit.  Nimo also has a bit of complicated and sticky situation with his Generation Adidas contract and as a result, comes with a higher price tag.  The question will be is Nimo worth the money?  Or could the team find an equally talented young player that doesn’t cost as much?

Ibad Muhamadu – Another late addition to the team this year, but that isn’t a bad thing.  As Gavin said earlier in the year, “We wouldn’t have brought players on the team so late in the year if we didn’t plan on using them.”  And I would guess “using them” not only means this past season, but probably next year too. Didn’t make the splash he would have liked, but still showed some potential.  Don’t think he’ll make the team, but I don’t feel comfortable totally writing him off either.  If the team still has faith in his talent, maybe they’ll be willing to give him the opportunity of a full season to impress them and show what he can do.

Doug DeMartin – Again, age is a big factor in this decision.  DeMartin showed some flashes this season, but I’m not sure if he has the talent to really excel at the next level.  A lot will depend on the quality and number of strikers the team ends up signing, but the coaching staff has shown a lot of confidence in DeMartin, so I’d say he has some hope to hold on to.

Adin Brown – The veteran goalie has a lot to offer and there’s been a lot of discussion that he’ll compete with Cronin for the Timber’s starting keeper spot.  With his wealth of experience, I’d say it’s very likely he’ll be there in 2011. Why waste draft picks on a goal keeper when you already have quality ones on your roster now?

Matt Pyzdrowski – A keeper with all the physical tools, he’s quick, tall, long, and most importantly only 24 years old.  With Adin Brown and Steve Cronin both likely to make the roster, I wouldn’t say Pyzdrowski is a lock, in fact far from it, but if Portland focuses on filling in other spots on the field first, and still wants a young prospect at keeper to develop, then he might be their guy.

Who’s Out?
Stephen Keel – A valuable member of the defense the last couple seasons, Keel has shown that he can be a steady and reliable defender.  However, he’s a bit older than some of the other defenders and doesn’t possess the all around game that the Timbers will be looking for at the next level.  Keel will be missed in Timber land, but there’s just too many talented defenders ahead of him on the list right now.  I’m guessing he’ll have a good shot at making the MLS next season, but just not with the Timbers.

Scot Thompson – Scot with one T will be moving to an office position in 2011, becoming the Timber’s community ambassador.  After 7 years with the team, its great to see Scot still have a part in the franchise’s future, but unfortunately, it won’t be on the field.

Steve Purdy – After converting to right-back this season, Purdy was admirable learning on the job so to speak, but I doubt there will be a spot for him on the MLS roster.  Will he get looks from other MLS teams?  Without a doubt.

Josh Cameron – A good young defender, Cameron didn’t play much this season, but could possibly make the Timber’s developmental team if the reserve league ends up going through.

Johan Claesson – An older veteran who’s had a couple nice seasons for the team, but his poor play this year hurt his chances.  I can’t see him making the jump.

Keith Savage – A good defensive-minded midfielder, but Savage struggled to create offensively or show his all-around abilities this year.

Derek Gaudet – One of the youngest players on the team, Gaudet has a lot to look forward to, but probably not the MLS next year.  He’s another strong candidate to make the reserve team if it indeed happens this upcoming spring.

Tony McManus – A blue-collar, energy player, McManus brings a lot of good things to the table – speed, intensity, determination, and work ethic, but sadly, it won’t be enough.

Brian Farber – The veteran was a good presence on the team the last couple seasons, but fell completely out of the rotation earlier this summer.  Whoever signs him next season will be a lucky team.

Takayuki Sazuki – Taka won’t be in the MLS next year, but I’m sure he’ll find somewhere to play.  Portland will have to replace yet another fan favorite in 2011.

George Josten – A decent talent with a lot of physical traits you’d want in a forward.  Big, fast, and mobile.  However, struggled with finishing plays for the past two years and won’t be doing the same in the MLS.  Could be a reserve team guy though, since he’s still pretty young.

Well, that’s it.  My shot at being Nostradamus.  Portland will probably bring up 7-8 guys to the MLS, but could bring as many as 9-10.  It could help with fan connection if a good amount of familiar faces are on the pitch next season.  When the Timbers announce the signings this Tuesday, I’m guessing they’ll only announce a few players.  So, if you don’t hear your name called, it’s not the end.  Other spots will still be open as the off-season moves on and the roster continues to shake out and take form.

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