Fresh Faces Round 3

Good news, the 2016 MLS Superdraft wasn’t a failure! Some draftees have stepped into their team’s starting line-up, and straight out the gate, they’re producing. Let’s talk about the three most consistent, successful players….so far.

Keegan Rosenberry     Price: $5.5     Club: Philadelphia Union

Many fans had a hard time understanding why Philadelphia picked Joshua Yaro at #2, and Keegan Rosenberry at #3 when Brandon Vincent had just be called up to the USMNT. The Union fans, however, should be satisfied now as it appears these picks are working out just fine. Yaro is fighting for a crowded CB position, and Rosenberry has started off the season in fine form.

Of Philly’s three first round draft picks, Rosenberry has to date been the most fruitful. Starting every game this season at right back, in a young back line, he has displayed both a defensive and offensive skill set. In the Union’s surprise 2-1 win over Columbus, Rosenberry held his own on the right side and also contributed to both goals. In his first goal assist he took a long throw (which he’ll be doing all season). The throw deflected off of a Columbus defender and Pontius slotted it home. In Rosenberry’s second contribution, he played a ball down the line to Le Toux who then squared it across the box.  It subsequently ended up in the back of the net via another Pontius finish.

Tsubasa Endoh     Price: $5.4     Club: Toronto FC

Going into the MLS combine, the Japan native, Endoh, wasn’t sure he would be drafted…. But by the 9^th overall pick, he knew he would be going to Toronto. His unexpected rise in importance didn’t stop there. At the first game of the season Endoh found himself starting at right wing next to MLS 2015 MVP, Sebastian Giovinco.

In the three games of this season, Endoh has yet to have a huge impact on the stat sheet for Toronto, but his maneuverability, and pace on the ball has helped things flow for the team who have had trouble up top except when going through the Atomic Ant. Endoh may not be the largest source of points for anyone this season, but he definitely has the potential to be a cheap midfielder who will play weekly and guarantee some safety points.

 

Jonathan Campbell     Price: $5.0     Club: Chicago Fire

Not many people predicted that Campbell would be the Fire’s most important draftee at this stage of the season, but prediction or not, here he is. Campbell has started all three games this season as centre back for Chicago, alongside Johan Kappelhof. His impact is perhaps being a tad overshadowed by Brandon Vincent who has yet to live up to the hype surrounding him.  However, if the two stay on task, Campbell’s strong, smart defending will become more recognizable when complimented by his young left back’s efforts.

Campbell has one clean sheet under his belt, so far, but will undoubtedly earn more. Looking at this player from a fantasy perspective, he is Chicago’s highest scoring defender and the 22^nd highest scoring defender overall. Any player ranked that high in their respective position, at such a low price, is someone we all need to keep our eyes on.