re: MLS growth process

I think the MLS is going about this the right way by sprinkling in a few big name players but committing to academy development for long term growth. Consider the final four clubs that competed for the MLS Cup last year: Portland, Columbus, Dallas, and NYRB. None of those clubs had big priced DPs like LA Galaxy, Toronto, Seattle, or NYC. Yet all four clubs were very pleasant to watch and played high quality, exciting soccer through a philosophy of youth commitment (Powell, Nagbe, Asprilla, Trapp, Finlay, Tchani, Castillo, Gonzalez, Ulloa, Diaz, Acosta, Hedges, Miazga) and smart buying of quality but lesser known players (Valeri, Adi, Kwarasey, Chara, Kamara, Higuain, Kljestan, Sam, Wright-Phillips).

You want and need the big name players because they increase exposure, coverage, and demand but the way you continue to grow the league and weave it into the fabric of American sports culture is through academies and young players. You also need to find those quality players that are underexposed and bring them in to play key roles. I think the MLS leadership has the right blend and is on the right path.