Playing for 90
Fansided

Five potential breakout MLS stars this fall

By Carson A Merk

Jul 31, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Crew forward Ola Kamara (17) looks towards the sideline against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports
Jul 31, 2016; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Columbus Crew forward Ola Kamara (17) looks towards the sideline against Toronto FC at BMO Field. Toronto FC won 3-0. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 15, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Erick Torres (9) during the game against Real Salt Lake at BBVA Compass Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
May 15, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Dynamo forward Erick Torres (9) during the game against Real Salt Lake at BBVA Compass Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Houston Dynamo Designated Player Erick “Cubo” Torres

There are a couple of facts we know about Cubo Torres. 1. He was an exciting up and comer while with Chivas USA two years ago. 2. He has been an absolute dud in Houston. The follow-up questions are how and why. How was Torres able to be such a goal scoring threat for Chivas. Was it the squad around him? Was he having more fun?

Did he prefer the California weather? Then, why has he been such a huge letdown for Houston? Is it merely a lack of opportunities? Does he not condition himself well anymore? Has he just lost his mojo?

Whether it’s scheme fit or fitness, Torres has never got significant time with the Dynamo. Add in the fact that he’s been with the Mexican U-23 side preparing for, and now playing in, the Rio Olympics, and he’s not a consistent player for Houston. With interim coach Wade Barrett making only minor improvements since Owen Coyle departed, he may go all in with Torres when he returns from Brazil to the goal challenged Forever Orange family.

The club just traded Giles Barnes, a shock to many Dynamo supporters, so anything roster wise is possible. There’s a chance Cubo comes back after gaining some confidence with the Olympic version of El Tri, and gets back to his electrifying Chivas form. That’s certainly not a guarantee, but it is surely a possibility.

Next: The unlikely Kamara

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