The New York Red Bulls traded two draft picks to the Colorado Rapids on Friday in order to secure defensive cover in the form of third-year player Hunter Freeman. The Texas native made 47 appearances over two seasons in the Mile High City, registering two assists.
To make room for Freeman, a U.S. youth international veteran, the Red Bulls waived Eric Denton. The club sent a 2008 third-round SuperDraft pick and a 2009 Supplemental Draft pick to Colorado for Freeman.
"We believe Hunter is at the beginning of a very bright career and will provide versatility and depth in our back line," said Red Bull New York technical director Jeff Agoos.
Freeman, 22, joins a relatively young defensive group under the tutelage of Bruce Arena. Left winger Todd Dunivant is the most experienced of the defenders on New York's roster, with four seasons under his belt. Carlos Mendes and Seth Stammler, who have two and three years of experience respectively, are the potential starters in the center, while second-year right man Marvell Wynne is a likely fit on the right flank. Tim Regan, Taylor Graham and Jeff Parke are also options that Freeman will be competing with for time.
Freeman joined the Rapids as the seventh overall selection in the 2005 SuperDraft. He made 20 rookie appearances and followed up on that with a solid sophomore effort. Freeman was a regular for the Rapids in 2006, seeing time on either flank in 27 appearances.
A national team player at nearly every youth level, Freeman is a veteran of the U.S. under-20 national team. He started in each of the team's four matches at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship, scoring one goal.
Freeman was one of the top collegiate players in the nation as a member of the Virginia Cavaliers, setting a program record for assists in a season with 21 in 2004 to lead the nation in that category. He was an all-ACC First Team and NSCAA/adidas All-America Third Team selection that year.
Denton leaves the Red Bulls after only four months of duty with the club. He was acquired by New York via the MLS waiver draft on Nov. 22. Denton made 22 appearances for Colorado during the 2006 season.
Jonathan Nierman is a contributor to MLSnet.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Soccer or its clubs.
