After starting the previous three seasons between the pipes for FC Dallas, fan favorite Kevin Hartman’s time with the club looks to be coming to a close. But whose choice that was is up for some debate.
“We have received multiple inquiries regarding the status of goalkeeper Kevin Hartman for the 2013 season,” FC Dallas technical director Fernando Clavijo told MLSsoccer.com by e-mail on Thursday. “Kevin's contract will expire at the end of December. Meanwhile, we have been in contract talks with Kevin's agent and we are unable to agree to his financial terms at this time.”
Hartman, who is the all-time MLS leader in games played, wins, shutouts and saves, started 83 games over the past three seasons for FC Dallas, including the run to MLS Cup in 2010. For an FCD squad looking to trim what had become a tight salary-cap situation, the 38-year-old seems to have become an unfortunate and unpopular casualty.
When reached for comment, Hartman’s agent paints a different picture of the situation, saying that no contract negotiations have taken place between the club and goalkeeper, adding that the decision came very unexpectedly.
“FC Dallas declined to make a contract offer to Kevin,” Ron Waxman told MLSsoccer.com on Thursday.
According to Hartman’s rep, the veteran was not given a bona fide offer by FC Dallas and will now be available for the MLS Re-Entry Draft in early December.
