The LA Galaxy acquired midfielder Joe Franchino from the New England Revolution Friday in exchange for a second round pick in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft. A California native, the 31-year old Franchino began his career with the Galaxy in 1998 and spent the first two and a half years of it in Los Angeles before joining the Revolution midway through the 2000 campaign.
Capable of playing in the midfield and at left back, Franchino has appeared in 211 regular season games and 25 postseason games during his MLS career, scoring five goals and adding 23 assists while helping his team reach the MLS Cup five times.
"Joe is an experienced, veteran player who will add some needed versatility to our club," Galaxy Director of Soccer Paul Bravo said. "He brings a lot to the table and will be able to help the club immediately."
Franchino was selected by the Galaxy in the third round of the 1998 MLS College Draft and played 49 games for the club, helping the Galaxy reach the 1999 MLS Cup. In May 2000, he was selected by the Revolution in a Special Draft that followed the Galaxy's acquisition of forward Luis Hernandez. Franchino would go on to play in 162 games for the Revs during his eight years with the club, placing him second in New England history in all-time games played. He made his 2008 debut as a second half substitute in New England's 3-1 win at Kansas City on April 9.
In order to make room for Franchino on the Galaxy's 18-man senior roster, defender Michael Gavin has been moved to the club's Developmental Roster as a Senior Developmental player.
The Galaxy are back in action on Saturday, April 19 when they host the Houston Dynamo at The Home Depot Center. This match kicks off at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are still available. For more information about this game or to purchase tickets, please visit www.lagalaxy.com or call 877-3GALAXY.
