January 13, 2024
Seattle Sounders FC has announced the signing of forward Braudílio Rodrigues to a contract for the 2024 season, with options for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. This move signifies a significant step in Rodrigues’ career as he transitions from the Tacoma Defiance, Seattle’s MLS NEXT Pro affiliate, to the first team.
Braudílio Rodrigues’ Path to Seattle Sounders
Braudílio Rodrigues, originally from Lisbon, Portugal, has shown promising talent throughout his young career. Before joining Tacoma Defiance in February 2023, he had a prolific collegiate career at Franklin Pierce University. During his time there, Rodrigues recorded 31 goals and 25 assists in 45 career matches over two seasons. His impressive performance in 2022, which included 20 goals and 22 assists, led his team to a 25-0-1 season and a National Championship. Following this, Rodrigues was awarded the Ron Lenz National Player of the Year award and the United Soccer Coaches National Player of the Year, along with several other honors.
In his first professional season with Tacoma Defiance, Rodrigues set a single-season club record for the team with 15 regular-season goals. He added two more goals in a Western Conference Quarterfinals victory over Houston Dynamo 2 and became only the third player in club history to record a hat trick. Rodrigues appeared in all 30 matches for Tacoma Defiance, starting 28 of them, and contributed four assists.
Seattle Sounders FC’s Expectations
Sounders FC General Manager and Chief Soccer Officer Craig Waibel expressed satisfaction with Rodrigues’ signing, noting his ability to score goals at every step in his career. Head Coach Brian Schmetzer also praised Rodrigues’ development and is looking forward to seeing him work once preseason training begins.
The signing of Rodrigues adds depth and offensive prowess to the Sounders’ attacking options. Seattle finished the 2023 regular season second in the Western Conference with 53 points, advancing to the Western Conference Semifinals before falling to LAFC. The club is currently preparing for the 2024 season, which kicks off against LAFC on February 24 at BMO Field.
Transaction Details
As part of the deal to bring Rodrigues to the first team, Seattle acquired the College Protected Period Priority for him from New York City FC in exchange for a natural third-round selection in the 2025 MLS SuperDraft. NYCFC retains a sell-on percentage and could receive up to $50,000 in General Allocation Money if certain performance-based metrics are met.
Braudílio Rodrigues’ addition to Seattle Sounders FC reflects the club’s commitment to nurturing talent and strengthening its squad as they look forward to another competitive season in MLS.
