Kosuke Kimura Trade: Rapids Send Veteran Defender To Timbers

The Colorado Rapids announced on Thursday afternoon they had traded D Kosuke Kimura to the Portland Timbers. In exchange, the Rapids received allocation money as well as an international roster spot. According to technical director Paul Bravo, Kimura's absence will be felt, but the trade should put the Rapids in a better position for long term:

"This is a move that gives us flexibility as we work with our roster and prepare for the rest of the season and beyond," said ... Bravo. "This was an incredibly difficult decision for us, considering the wonderful service Kosuke has given us both on and off the field since he arrived here in 2007. He is a class act and we wish him success in Portland."

According to Rapids analyst Chris White of the Burgundy Wave blog, the trade comes as a bit of a shock, but could ultimately improve the team:

Wow, this one was unexpected but Kimura had been ineffective in Pareja's system this year and they needed more international spots it seems. Going to be interesting to see who is brought in to take that slot, there's going to be a lot of unrest about this among fans I'm sure.

For more news and updates on the Colorado Rapids, visit the Rapids blog Burgundy Wave. And to keep abreast of soccer updates from the US and around the world, check out SB Nation's soccer news hub.