The Portland Timbers have waived forward Jack McInerney after one season with the club. He appeared in 24 regular season matches with the Timbers, producing five goals. “In building our roster for the upcoming season, we’ve had to make some difficult decisions that provide us with necessary cap space for projected additions,” said general manager Gavin Wilkinson. “We thank Jack for his services to the club, and we wish him all the best as he continues his career.”
Timbers Waive Jack McInerney
The young MLS journeyman had been with his third team in two seasons after splitting 2015 with the Columbus Crew and Montreal Impact. Although only 24 years old, McInerney has seen action with four different clubs. He was a highly touted prospect when he was drafted by the Philadelphia Union in 2010. He peaked with 12 goals in 2013, but has been unable to approach that form since them.
This opens up space for Timbers first round draft pick Jeremy Ebobisse to start the regular season with the club. The 20-year-old from Duke is now the natural backup for Fanendo Adi, who will certainly need a rest every now and then. He has a bigger frame than McInerney’s 5’10” 155 lbs. body. ALthough still four inches shorter than Adi at an even six feet tall, he should be more able to replicate the physical presence of the Nigerian starter.
Ebobisse will be competing with the more McInerney like Darren Mattocks for the backup striker spot. Mattocks started 12 games playing mostly on the wing last season. He scored once and notched three assists.
Since McInerney was waived today, he is eligible to have his salary wiped off salary cap. The clears up the cap space to replace the injured Gbenga Arokoyo in the back line. Arokoyo ruptured his Achilles tendon in the preseason, which creates a huge hole in the already weak Timbers defense. Expect Wilkinson to sign a fresh center back in the early weeks of the season. Lawrence Olum figures to start at central defense until a permanent replacement can be signed.
The Timbers open their season on Friday night against Minnesota United at Providence Park. Kickoff is slated for 9:30pm eastern time and the match can be seen on FS1.
