As fans now know, Micheal Azira was surprisingly sent to the MLS Elysian Fields—otherwise known as the waiver zone. Being waived is not a player death sentence, but a lot of players have a tough time being picked up during the MLS Waiver Draft. Luckily Azira isn’t one of those players. It’s hard to go to the Sounders roster page these days because it’s so empty and missing so many great players, but Rave Green’s got to do what they think is best for a strong season, right? It’s also hard to see players go with the budget listed as a reason why they are cut, which was the case with Lamar Neagle, when the MLS just announced that another $37 million is being added to the club to boost rosters next season.

On December 9, it was announced that the Colorado Rapids is picking up Azira via the draft. He was the second overall pick, which is understandable considering his talent on the field. And while he doesn’t have to move as far as Lamar Neagle, who was traded to D. C. United just days ago, it is still sure to be a big transition for the Ugandan player.

Sure, the midfielder has no goals on record in the 30 games he has played. But he has started in 15 of those games and proved that he is a powerful player in the 1482 minutes he has been on the field. In fact, he was the only player selected during the MLS Waiver Draft.

In addition to Azira, the Colorado Rapids also picked up Sean St. Ledger during the month. Although the defender was originally declined by the team, he agreed to play for a new contract with undisclosed details. St. Ledger says that he is very excited to play for the club again, noting that the team is due for a “proper training camp.”

Azira started his youth career in 2008 with the Lindsey Wilson Blue Raiders, where he played until 2009. Next he joined the Mobile Rams from 2010 to 2011. His senior career began with Mississippi Brilla from 2010 to 2011, followed by a year with Charleston Battery from 2012 to 2013. He has been with the Sounders since 2014, going on loan to the FC 2 team in 2015. Seattle wishes Azira well. Who knows? He may be back to play for the green someday. It happens.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia