TFC Net Nick Garcia From 'Quakes For Draft Pick

Toronto FC has acquired Nick Garcia and the discovery claim to Ali Gerba from the San Jose Earthquakes for a third round draft pick.

Jun 9, 2009 7:16:19 PM

More On :  San Jose, Toronto FC, Greg Sutton, Nick Garcia
Toronto FC has acquired the rights to veteran central defender Nick Garcia from the San Jose Earthquakes. The 30-year-old comes along with the discovery rights to Canadian striker Ali Gerba in exchange for a third round draft pick in the 2010 SuperDraft.

“We are very happy to bring in a defender with Nick’s experience,” said director of soccer Mo Johnston. “We tried to bring him in before and finally we were able to get a deal done. He plays 90 minutes every game, he’s quick, and he knows this league inside and out.
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"On Ali Gerba, he’s another one that’s been on our radar, and we look forward to sitting down with him and getting a contract signed as soon as we can.”

Toronto has been in the hunt for a centerback since losing Tyrone Marshall and Julius James in the offseason. Marco Velez's poor showing on the weekend against the Los Angeles Galaxy looks to have expedited the process.

Questions have to be asked about the cheap price with which TFC acquired Garcia. With Cam Weaver also leaving San Jose earlier today, the Earthquakes look set to revamp the roster in order to reverse the disappointing results that have pit them bottom of Major League Soccer with only nine points in 12 games.

In order to make room for Garcia, Toronto waived goalkeeper Greg Sutton. The 32-year-old Canadian lost his starting spot to rookie Stefan Frei this season and was seen as surplus to requirements.


“First and foremost we want to thank Greg for everything he has done for this club,” said Johnston. “Greg has always been the consummate professional, he was the first goalkeeper signed by this club, and this was a difficult decision to make. We wish him all the best.” 

Zac Lee Rigg, Goal.com

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