MLS
Rapids Trade Peguero to New York for Martins, Draft Picks
By Russell Shiring
April 21, 2006
In an exchange of foreign forwards, New York has traded Thiago Martins to Colorado for Jean Philippe Peguero. In the deal, Colorado also received the Red Bulls' first-round and third round picks in the 2007 MLS SuperDraft. The third-round pick is conditional and, if Peguero plays well, it could be upgraded to a second-round selection.
Peguero, 25, is a Hatian international know for his speed and strength. He has spent the previous two seasons with the Rapids and scored seven goals in each of those seasons.
"Jean Philippe is a strong, quick forward who is very good in the air," said New York head coach Mo Johnston. "He has proven he can score goals in this league and we believe he can contribute to our team immediately."
Peguero is a green card holder and therefore does not occupy one of the team's four senior international slots. The Red Bulls have two senior international slots open after Amado Guevara recently received his green card.
Martins, 29, is a native of Sao Paulo, Brazil and has been in the league since joining D.C. United in 2003. He was selected by Chivas USA in the 2005 expansion draft and was then traded to New York for Ante Razov and an allocation.
In 29 career MLS games, Martins has scored three goals.