The New York Red Bulls have traded forward Juan Agudelo to Chivas USA for defender Heath Pearce, allocation money and other considerations, as first reported by Fox Sports.
Agudelo is viewed as a rising young star with a big future, but he didn't score a point in four appearances with the Red Bulls this season. Most of the soccer world still reacted with disbelief that the Red Bulls would ship him away, but NBC's Pro Soccer Talk explains that Pearce -- a solid defender -- might be exactly what the Red Bulls need:
1) Agudelo is a good prospect and a highly skilled player, but he's not there yet. Hans Backe has an attacking force that functions fine without the teenager. NYRB won't have trouble scoring. Besides, if the forward has a good season, he's on the move to Europe soon anyway. So why not get something for him while you can?
2) Pearce will thrive on the field in New York. He's versatile, skilled, and smart. He fills roles. He's a charismatic leader. He's exactly what the Red Bulls need.
For more on the Red Bulls 2012 season, stay tuned to our StoryStream. See SB Nation's Once A Metro for more discussion of the Red Bulls.