Toronto FC announced Friday, that the club has signed American defender Hunter Freeman from the New York Red Bulls until the end of the season. In exchange, New York receives third and fourth round 2009 MLS Supplemental Draft picks.
"We're very happy to have him join us," said manager, director of soccer Mo Johnston. "He's a talented and versatile player that can play in numerous positions. We are aware that his plan is to play in Europe next season but he will provide great cover for us as we push toward the playoffs."
Toronto FC retains Freeman's rights until Dec. 31, 2009. If Freeman returns to the league before or on that date, Toronto FC will give New York its second round 2011 MLS SuperDraft pick. If Freeman returns after Dec. 31, 2009, New York retains Freeman's MLS rights and would not receive compensation by Toronto FC.
Freeman, 23 joined MLS in 2005 after being selected by the Colorado Rapids in the first round (seventh overall) in the MLS SuperDraft. He was then dealt to New York on March 23, 2007 in exchange for a third round pick in the 2008 MLS SuperDraft and a fourth round pick in the 2009 MLS Supplemental Draft.
This season with New York, Freeman has started 10 of 14 games compiling 953 minutes recording one assist.
Freeman has also been involved with the U.S. national team on a number of different levels. He was a member of the U.S. squad during the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championships in the Netherlands, where he scored the lone goal for the Americans against Italy in the round of 16. The defender also attended the U-23 men's national team camp in preparation for a pair of friendlies against China in November of 2007.
A product of the University of Virginia (2002-04) Freeman earned All-ACC First Team honors as well as NSCAA/adidas All-American Third Team honors in 2004.
Hunter Freeman #2
Position: Defender
Height: 5-11 Weight: 170
Birthdate: January 8, 1985
Hometown: Allen, TX
Last Club: New York Red Bulls
Roster Designation: International
