The Colorado Rapids have begun their offseason makeover.
First, the team announced Thursday afternoon that captain Jack Price did not have his option for the 2024 season renewed. Then, an hour later, the club disclosed it did not intend to re-sign Chilean striker Diego Rubio, clearing the way for him to enter MLS free agency.
Neither announcement came as a surprise after both players revealed on social media over the weekend that they were not returning in 2024.
Rubio, 30, joined Colorado five seasons ago and made 114 appearances and 97 starts, notching 38 goals and 26 assists. He departs as the club leader in game-winning goals (14), and sits at No. 4 in MLS goals scored and sixth in assists. His best season came in 2022 when he set the single-season club record for most goal contributions with 23 and tied the single-season goal mark with 16.
“We’re thankful to Diego for everything he contributed to the club during his five seasons in Burgundy and wish him all the best as he moves on to the next stage of his career,” Colorado Rapids President Pádraig Smith said in a news release.
Known for playing with passion, Rubio could conjure up goals seemingly out of nothing to lead his side back into games or steal wins late. He was the viewed as the team’s go-to offensive catalyst since 2021, but injuries this season led to him missing considerable time. Still, fans came to admire Rubio for putting in everything for the badge and his instinctual ability to score at opportune times, both of which are traits which can’t be taught.
Colorado also thanked Rubio with a send-off video of his best moments as a member of the team.
For everything you've done for the Burgundy & Blue#Rapids96 pic.twitter.com/CFubzqeVdL
— Colorado Rapids (@ColoradoRapids) October 26, 2023
The Rapids front office will have numerous player contract and team options to decide on in the coming weeks. That list includes striker Calvin Harris, whether to officially go through and sign Designated Player Rafael Navarro next July, and other up-and-coming prospects from Rapids 2 over the winter.
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