The New York Red Bulls announced Wednesday they have parted ways with defender Heath Pearce, making the former US national team selection the latest player added to the MLS Re-Entry Draft next month.
Pearce, 29, was acquired by New York from Chivas USA on May 17, 2012 in exchange for forward Juan Agudelo, allocation money and future considerations. During his time with New York, Pearce amassed 32 appearances (29 of which were starts), two goals and two assists.
Pearce underwent season-ending hip surgery in the summer of 2013.
“We want to thank Heath for his time at the club since joining in 2012,” Red Bulls sporting director Andy Roxburgh said in a statement. “Following our discussions with Heath after the conclusion of the 2013 season, it was decided to not offer him a new contract in order to allow both parties to go in our separate ways. We wish Heath the best of luck in the next stage of his career.”
Prior to joining New York, Pearce played a pair of seasons each with FC Dallas (2009-10) and Chivas USA (2011-12) and had stints with Denmark’s Nordsjealland (2005-07) and Germany’s Hansa Rostock (2007-09).
A former member of the US national team, Pearce was part of the 2009 FIFA Confederation Cup and Gold Cup squads and the preliminary 30-man roster for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The three-time MLS All-Star, who was most recently voted onto the squad in 2012, has earned 35 caps for his country.
