Rapids trade Cronin and Burch to Minnesota for pair of midfielders

Cronin, the Rapids’ team captain, and Burch were both key pieces on what was the MLS’ best defense a year ago.

Christian Clark

Mar. 31, 2017, 2:40 p.m.

Colorado Rapids Sam Cronin during game against FC Dallas at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, July 23, 2016. Rapids took the lead in the first half, and lost the lead when DC Dallas scored in the second half and the game ended in a tie 1-1. (Jessica Taves/For Denverite) jessica taves; denverite; colorado rapids; fc dallas; sports; soccer; colorado; denver; — Sam Cronin is headed to Minnesota. (Jessica Taves/For Denverite)

The Colorado Rapids shook up their team Friday by reportedly trading midfielder Sam Cronin and defender Marc Burch to Minnesota for midfielders Mohammed Saeid and Josh Gatt.

Daniel Boniface of the Denver Post broke the news.

Cronin, the Rapids’ team captain, and Burch were both key pieces on what was the MLS’ best defense a year ago. Cronin started 33 games last season as the Rapids advanced all the way to the Western Conference Championship. Burch started 27 games at left back.

The trade should free up more playing time for Biskmark “Nana” Adjei-Boateng, who Colorado acquired this offseason. The 22-year-old Ghanian midfielder figures to take over Cronin’s role in the midfield.

Saied, who’s from Sweden, is in his third MLS season. He spent two years with the Columbus Crew before Minnesota took him in the expansion draft. Has has six assists and no goals in 53 MLS games.

Gatt has never played an MLS game. He’s spent most of his pro career in Norway and Austria.

The Rapids are 1-1-1 so far this season.

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