CARSON, CA - The Los Angeles Galaxy announced today that the Major League Soccer club has acquired FC Dallas' allocation for missing the 2004 MLS playoffs, which currently stands as highest available. In exchange, the Galaxy traded forward Carlos Ruiz to Dallas.
"We would like to thank Carlos for all he has done for this club over the course of three seasons," said Galaxy President and General Manager Doug Hamilton. "It was his ability to score the timely goal so many times in 2002 that put us in position to win our first MLS Cup Championship."
In three MLS seasons, Ruiz has appeared in 72 games (69 starts) and amassed 108 points on 50 goals and eight assists. He was named an all star in each of his first three campaigns and received the 2003 All-Star Game Most Valuable Player award. The Guatemalan international had his best season in 2002, earning MVP honors in both the regular season and the playoffs after leading the Galaxy to the MLS Cup title.
"Carlos has accomplished some great things during his time in a Galaxy uniform," added Hamilton. "Making this move now allows us the greatest opportunity to maximize the value he represents, when considering that he has only nine months left on his contract, and that despite repeated efforts on our behalf, we have been unable to extend our relationship. We wish he and his family all the best in Dallas."
In 2004, he led the Galaxy in goals scored with eleven. When added to 15 goals in 2003 and 24 in 2002, he has scored 50 regular season goals in 72 career regular season games, becoming the second-fastest player to reach 50 goals in League history.
The native of Guatemala City has also been a stalwart on the Guatemala national team for the last several years since making his debut for the chapines in 1999. In fact, he is currently with the national side as they make their final preparations for their FIFA World Cup qualifier against the USA.
The Los Angeles Galaxy are pleased to once again offer fans "The Best Seats in the House" at The Home Depot Center. For the Galaxy's first two home games in 2005 (April 9 vs. Real Salt Lake and April 23 vs. CD Chivas USA), the club will be selling 100 seats along one touchline on a first-come, first-served basis. Each ticket costs $150 per game and includes the actual chair the fan sits in. For more information on "The Best Seats in the House" or to purchase tickets, call the Galaxy Ticket Office toll-free at 1-877-3GALAXY.
TRANSACTION:
The L.A. Galaxy traded forward Carlos Ruiz to FC Dallas in exchange for an allocation.
