Reid, Mike and Blayne sit down with Tim and Parker to talk about all things Eastern Conference. Before the previews start, they also have a good discussion about the new player auto-switch system. Is it good for casual players or bad? Listen to find out. They wrap up with a preview of every Eastern Conference team. It’s a little longer than before, but Tim and Parker have a lot of great info!
While MLS managers use the preseason to mold their teams ahead of the 2018 season, hardcore MLS Fantasy managers are digesting countless hours of hit-or-miss online streams to get a leg up on the competition. Now that we’ve gotten a sneak peak at what’s to come, let’s take a look at some values that have emerged on the MLS Fantasy radar based on their preseason performances.
Samuel Armenteros (FW, Portland Timbers, $8.0):
Armenteros in training for his new club | Courtesy of Portland Timbers
The former Serie A striker scored in all three of his preseason appearances, notching four goals and adding an assist along the way. That type of production may have earned him a spot in the starting lineup when the regular season kicks off, and if he can carry that goalscoring form over Armenteros could be a steal at $8 million.
Jon Bakero (FW, Chicago Fire, $5.5):
The 2017 Hermann Trophy winner gave us a glimpse of his skill set at the MLS Combine in January and he’s logged heavy minutes in the Fire attack during preseason. Technically, Chicago still have one preseason game to go (Saturday, March 3 vs Tulsa Roughnecks), but Bakero looks to have already locked up a spot in the starting lineup. Fire fans are excited to see what he can offer, and at $5.5 million the rookie is in a great spot to exceed fantasy value this season
Danny Hoesen (MF, San Jose Earthquakes, $7.5):
Danny Hoesen, right, receives congratulations from former teammate Darwin Ceren | USA Today Images
Hoesen spent much of his freshman season in MLS playing out of position, hence the midfielder designation he gets heading into the 2018 MLS Fantasy campaign. If preseason is any indication, it looks as though new head coach Mikael Stahre wants to get Hoesen closer to goal in his more natural role as a target forward. The positional shift already seems to be paying dividends with Hoesen scoring multiple goals over the course of preseason, and for $7.5 million the Dutch hitman brings double-digit goal upside at a very manageable price.
Alphonso Davies (MF, Vancouver Whitecaps, $5.5):
"Alphonso Davies is off to the races..."
— Vancouver Whitecaps (@WhitecapsFC) February 20, 2018
Yeah, he does that... ⚽️🏃💭💭💭🕺 #VWFCpic.twitter.com/3754rvQWSJ
The 17-year-old phenom showcased his abilities during an impressive preseason, scoring highlight reel goals and leaving no doubt that he’s ready to take on a bigger role in the Vancouver attack this season. He opens up a healthy chunk of salary at $5.5 million, and if you need a reminder of what Davies is capable of, just look above.
Auro (DF, Toronto FC, $4.5):
Auro, middle, plays between two Colorado Rapids players | USA Today Images
Auro wasted no time in making his presence felt since joining the TFC camp in mid-February. The flashy Brazilian wingback contributed an assist in Toronto’s CONCACAF Champions League win over Colorado and he played his part in helping the Reds see out a clean sheet in each game of the two leg series. It’ll be interesting to see how he’s used with Gregory van der Wiel in the fold, but based on his early returns Auro is a name I’ll be looking for when starting lineups are announced.
Which player caught your eye during the preseason? Let us know in the comments below.
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