Kennedy Re-Signs with Chivas USA

Good news! In addition to bringing back defender Ante Jazic, Chivas USA have re-signed goalkeeper Dan Kennedy to a new contract. The details of the deal were undisclosed, which is standard league policy, but word from the club in a statement is that it is a multi-year deal. We won't know how much of a raise Kennedy will get in this deal until salary figures are released by the players' union next season, but hopefully it is substantial. He made $62,496 last season, which was arguably one of the best values in the league. Still, he was team MVP in 2011, and nearly dragged the rest of the team into the playoffs. It is good news for Kennedy and the club alike.


Speculation regarding the goalkeeper position will now turn to the backups. Zach Thornton is currently available for the second phase of the re-entry draft, scheduled for next Monday, but it's unlikely he will be selected by any teams. The reason is his price tag: $155,000 base salary in 2011. Although he has a very successful track record in MLS, his days as a starter are likely over, and his price and advancing age (38) mean he could provide depth but at a lower price. It's certainly possible that Chivas could re-sign him, but he will have to take a substantial pay cut.

Meanwhile, the third-string keeper in 2011 was Sergio Arias. The Mexican national was on loan from Chivas de Guadalajara, and it's unclear if his loan will continue in 2012. He saw no action during the 2011 season, but he's young (23) and unsurprisingly did not make much ($45,000 base salary). Might he be in line to move in as the backup for 2012? Again, it depends on his loan situation and what happens with Thornton. But above all, the best news is that Kennedy is poised to spend a long time between the sticks for the Goats - something that all Chivas fans can be happy about.

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