Yanks Soccer

Just when all the turmoil surrounding Brian Mcbride had settled down, commissioner Don Garber told Rob Stone of ESPN that a solution regarding Mcbride had been reached.  Chicago paid a steep price in the end, but if Mcbride can push them to the MLS Cup, it will be all worth it.  

Sources are telling me that the deal has Chad Barrett going to Toronto, as well as a first round draft pick and allocation money.  It was not a cheap acquisition to begin with, but Chicago avoided giving up Chris Rolfe and Justin Mapp so they are satisfied.  Toronto finally gave in because of their need for a forward.  They know that Barrett is prone to misses, but they also know he can put it in the back of the net, unlike most of their current forwards.  

Don Garber also mentioned that MLS will be expanding to 18 teams by 2011.  This means that there will be two new franchises for the 2011 season.  There are no cities which are in yet, but from what I hear, St. Louis and Vancouver are leading candidates.  Two other serious candidates would also be Portland, and another team in New York. 

What do you think of MLS’ involvement?  Was it fair for them to get involved?  Are you happy to see Mcbride back in MLS, especially for Chicago?  Was it a fair trade in the end?  What are your thoughts on expansion?  Should we be focusing on American cities or is expansion to Canada something we should be interested in?  Your thoughts below.