Four Players the Revolution Would Hate to Lose in the Expansion Draft

The New England Revolution has revealed its list of exposed players ahead of Wednesday’s Expansion Draft and, as you would expect from a team that just appeared in the MLS Cup Final, there are talented players available to New York City FC and Orlando City SC. Let’s take a look at four players that the Revs would hate to lose through the draft.

1. Darrius Barnes-The versatile Barnes can play anywhere along the back line, which makes him an asset to any team trying to manage the salary cap. More than a capable fill-in, Barnes could be a starter for many teams in MLS. With Barnes in the starting XI this year, the Revs were 10-5-1. While Barnes is best known for his defensive prowess, the Duke product can also contribute on the attacking end as he collected two assists and one goal in 2014. Barnes has developed well since being drafted 40th overall in the 2009 MLS SuperDraft and losing him would create a large void.
2. Patrick Mullins-Mullins was the talk of the league in May when he scored in four straight games, matching former Chicago Fire forward Damani Ralph’s record for the most consecutive goals scored by a rookie. Mullins soon cooled, however, with his only appearance on the score sheet since that time coming on Sept. 3 when he registered an assist against Sporting KC. Regardless of the cold spell, it’s easy to see that the two-time MAC Hermann Trophy winner has talent. If you aren't convinced, re-watch the assist Mullins' offered on Tierney's MLS Cup goal.
3. Steve Neumann-With 20 substitute appearances this year, Neumann gained a reputation as a reliable player off the bench. The Georgetown product has a precise cross that is valuable in dead ball situations or the run of play. While he went the entire regular season without collecting a goal or an assist, Neumann did get one of each against the Richmond Kickers in the fourth round of the US Open Cup. Like Mullins, Neumann has loads of potential and can even be compared to the great Steve Ralston.
4. A.J. Soares-Rumors are swirling that Soares is looking to make a move to Europe, but a Revolution press release stated that the team is trying to re-sign the center back. Does NYC or Orlando pick Soares and try to tempt him to stay in MLS? It’s a possibility considering the season he had. The fourth year pro was team’s Defender of the Year and Players’ Player in a season where he made 32 starts. Seeing Soares realize his dream of playing in Europe would be acceptable for most Revolution fans, but watching him join another MLS team might not garner the same reaction.