What do to with Pablo?




Is it time the Rapids got rid of Pablo?

I know this may come off as heresy or disloyalty to some, and others may be thinking "it's about time someone else has said it!", but is it time for the Rapids to move on without Pablo Mastroeni?

With the recent trades the Rapids made it looks like the Rapids may be thinking that too. Bringing Jeff Larentowitz in to the fold along with the emergence of LaBrocca as a consistent contributor to the defensive midfield has left the fans with the question, what do we do with Pablo? At this point in their careers Larentowitz, 26,is a better player at the position that Pablo, 33, currently occupies.

Pablo has always been a tweener type of player, not really big enough to play defense, not really much of a passer to link with the attack when playing d-mid. That's not to say he hasn't played both of those positions, and played them well, he very much has. Not only that, but he has also become an icon for this club, and it wouldn't surprise me someday to see his name and number join the Rapids' "Gallery of Honor".

In Pablo's younger years he was able to make up for his disadvantages with heart, fury, will power and leadership, all qualities that even earned him a well deserved place with the US National Team too. Now, another year older, and perhaps a step slower, maybe now is the time to make a move with him, hand the reigns off while his reputation is still at it's height. Would a defensive midfield of Larentowitz and LaBrocca be worse off? I think it would be better actually.

This is all difficult to say, I have enjoyed all that Pablo has brought to the Rapids throughout the years and continue to be a fan of his to this day. However, as much of a fan as I am of his, I think it would make Colorado a better team to move him on. Whatever or wherever Pablo's future is, it has been a good ride for him and I wish him the best.

Comments

Dan H said…
It's always sad to see a veteran go. But sometimes the best decisions are the toughest ones to make.
February 1, 2010 at 7:54 PM
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