#NashvilleSC GM Mike Jacobs on the signing of Matt LaGrassa, Taylor Washington, Alan Winn and Ken Tribbett.
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Its a great day, not only for the 4 players, but for the fans of the USL team. To see these guys go through the last 2 years (1 year) and perform the things they could do, to prove they should be included in the project. Proud of how they’ve played and conducted themselves also.
On MLS experience: "It’s relevant in some regards. It comes down to the role they’re being asked to do. Ken’s experience in MLS made him someone they wanted to get last year to put under a microscope. It was very clear when he was healthy that he should be included."
"Other guys fill specific roles in position, and roster designation. They understand what Gary looks for in specific players. Gary will be helped by having guys on the field and in the locker room who understand his style and what he looks for in specific positions."
Jacobs confirmed that these four are the only players being brought up from the USL side.
"A big thing for us is managing expectations. It's great to have nucleus who were in group last year, but it's important to keep realistic expectations. Having that roster DNA is important, but the expectations we have are realistic because of the vast difference in standards."
Says Tribbett can blend in with the guys we have signed. He fits in with the guys we have in the back. Has playmaking abilities out of the back, and will help with the change in speed of play. Overall a good 1v1 defender, and solid in the air. Expects to assimilate quickly.
Says LaGrassa is versatile. He can play multiple roles in midfield. He covers a lot of ground, and he works really hard. He has a lot of drive and intensity. He fits the "NSC DNA" really well. Provides depth at a lot of roles in midfield.
Says Washington provides cover at left back as well as left midfield in a pinch. Covers a lot of ground. He and Ken are both much more equipped to be in the league now than they were as rookies. Was really important to get regular matches. More prepared for the next level.
Says Winn took a gamble leaving Colorado to come to Nashville. He demonstrated that he could do the things Gary will ask of wide players. Can play right or left, fits certain roster designations. Had him in mind for MLS early on.
"We only have so many roster spots that we can fill. Wanted to get through the Expansion Draft and figure out what we could fill, and what roles we could afford to fill from the USL group." Says it was very important to the club to announce all four players at the same time.
"I want to keep it in perspective as far as what it means. Doing it in this fashion, away from other signings and the draft, to give it it’s own day. As far as expectations go, it’s an opportunity to sign four players to our roster. It should be no more and no less than that."
"MLS teams fill their rosters with college draft picks. I value the experience these players have had in USL. Maybe they’ll start out in roles more common to college signings or SuperDraft picks, but the experience they’ve had is very important."
"Maybe they measure success by having earned the chance to play in MLS, but my goal is for them to earn meaningful MLS minutes."
" We’ll under promise the roles they have at the next level and manage those expectations." Jacobs says they will have every opportunity to fight for minutes, but as with any player, no guarantees are made.
"Our commitment is to the fans, and we’re committed to putting the best team on the field."
