Union Trade Pajoy Get Danny Cruz In Return

(Photo: NYTimes)

Earlier today, the Philadelphia Union traded Colombian forward Lionard Pajoy to rival DC United for midfielder Danny Cruz. The Union had to also give up an international roster spot to acquire the Virginia native. Pajoy was brought in earlier this season from Colombian side Itagui Ditaries. Prior to joining United Danny spent three seasons in Houston and won an MLS Cup with the Dynamo.

Lionard was suppose to be the replacement for Le Toux but that never really panned out. He scored five goals in 20 matches with the Union not a horrible track record but should have been double that. Pajoy consistently got himself into dangerous positions and created numerous scoring opportunities. He had an inability to convert those opportunities. Pajoy had great control and was dangerous on the wing. The problem is Pajoy was our tallest forward and we needed him to be good in the middle. Lio has the skill set to be a great second option the problem was the Union wanted him to be a the main guy. DC should be a good fit and with an experienced mid fielder behind him and a few decent strikers Pajoy should contribute to the DC offense.


Danny Cruz is a 22 year old speedster who is known for his crossing and passing. He will add depth in the midfield and may even start on the wing. Danny is not a goal scorer and with a small front line it is hard to know exactly how valuable a strong crosser will be. Danny was struggling to find time on the pitch with DC. Danny played in 16 games starting 12 of them he has a goal along with three assists on the season. Danny is reunited with Hackworth who coached him on the US-U17 team. 

This trade helps the Union in their search for a winger but it still does not answer the lack of goal problems. This trade does help the Union economically. Pajoy who makes just under 200k is replaced by Cruz who makes just under 100K. This opens up options if the Union want to trade for a player or work on signing an international player in the next window. There is a bevy of options open for Hackworth as he molds this Union lineup to his liking.