Regardless of the drama surrounding their head coaching position, the Colorado Rapids are making moves to bolster their squad ahead of the 2014 season.
The Rapids and San Jose Earthquakes both announced on Tuesday that they've agreed to a trade that will see Colorado acquire Marvin Chavez in exchange for Atiba Harris. As part of the deal, the Rapids will also retain a portion of Harris' salary on their 2014 books.
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A 30-year-old winger who plays for Honduras' national team, Chavez has spent the past two years in San Jose but saw his production falter last season. After scoring three goals and assisting on 13 others in 27 matches in 2012 as San Jose won the Supporters' Shield, Chavez had just one goal and an assist in 15 matches for a struggling Earthquakes team that failed to make the playoffs in 2013.
“Marvin is a dynamic attacking player with a lot of international experience, who can both create and score goals,” Rapids technical director Paul Bravo said in a statement. “We’re eager to bring him into our squad and help him get settled in Colorado. We would also like to thank Atiba for his work here last year. He was a true professional and we wish him the best.”
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Harris leaves Colorado after a successful first season with the Rapids. The 28-year-old forward started in 24 of the 29 games he played in during 2013, scoring five goals and adding an assist. He has previously played for several other MLS clubs, including the Vancouver Whitecaps and Real Salt Lake.
“Atiba has been a successful player in this league for a number of years," Earthquakes head coach Mark Watson said in a statement. "We’ve always had our eyes on him and we’re happy to bring him to San Jose.”
