Houston native Francisco Navas Cobo, an 18-year-old midfielder, became the second "homegrown" player to graduate to his club's first team from the academy, and the 11th in MLS history. We take a look at how his predecessors have faired.
Tristan Bowen (Los Angeles Galaxy) - F, 19. Signed November, 2008. Played one minute for LA Galaxy's first team in 2009. Loaned out to USL-1's Miami FC, for which he played three games.
Cesar Zamora (Chivas USA) - M, 18. Signed May, 2009. Will be eligible to play in 2010.
Carlos Borja (Chivas USA) - M, 22. Signed July, 2006. Waived by Chivas USA in August, 2007. Spent time with Chivas de Guadalajara's affiliate, CD Tapatio of the Primera División A.
Eder Robles (Chivas USA) - D/M, 21. Signed September, 2006. Didn't play first team game for Chivas USA. Waived.
Estuardo Sanchez (Chivas USA) - F, 22. Signed March 17, 2006. Played in the MLS reserve division. Released at end of 2008 having not played a game for the senior team.
Gerson Mayen (Chivas USA) - D/M, 21. Signed March 27, 2009. To date, probably the most successful academy product in MLS. Tallied four assists in 12 appearances in 2009.
Bryan Leyva (FC Dallas) - M, 17. Signed September, 2009. Will be eligible to play in 2010.
Bill Hamid (DC United) - GK, 19. Signed September, 2009. Will be eligible to play in 2010.
Tyler Deric (Houston) - GK, 21. Signed February, 2009. Was named to Dynamo's Champions League roster and loaned to USL's Austin Aztex, but didn't play for either.
Giorgi Chirgadze (NY Red Bulls) - F, 19. Signed September, 2009. Will be eligible to play in 2010, but this week underwent hip surgery and will be out for up to five months.
