Columbus, OH — Eastern Conference final runner-ups Columbus Crew SC acquired goalkeeper Jon Kempin in a trade with the Los Angeles Galaxy. In exchange for Kempin, Columbus has given up a fourth-round pick in the 2018 MLS Super Draft.
Columbus finished the 2017 season making the playoffs but being losing to Toronto FC in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The 24-year-old is an eight-year MLS veteran who previously played for the Galaxy and Sporting Kansas City.
Crew SC Acquire Goalkeeper Jon Kempin
Kempin spent this past season with the Galaxy, where he made seven regular-season appearances (all starts), recording just two shutouts and 27 saves. He also made six regular-season appearances with the LA Galaxy II, LA’s USL squad. There, he recorded two clean sheets and 32 saves.
The Galaxy had declined Kempin’s option on November 27, 2017 following his first season with the club.
Before joining the LA powerhouse, Kempin spent seven seasons with SKC, signing as the clubs first homegrown player back in 2010 at 17-years-old. Last year, Kempin made 12 appearances (all starts) for the Swope Park Rangers, Sporting’s USL side, tallying up three shutouts and 33 saves.
“Jon is a promising young goalkeeper with proven experience in the league and U.S. Youth National Teams. He has a good reputation for his work ethic, competitiveness, and contributions in the locker room. We are happy to welcome Jon to Columbus and continue his development,” said Head Coach and Sporting Director Gregg Berhalter.
International Level Play
Kempin has represented the US at the U014, U-17, U-20, and U-23 levels. In 2015, he was named to the senior squad for the first time. Recently, he featured for the U-23 side in a friendly against Brazil on November 11, 2015.
Offseason transactions continue with the MLS Re-entry draft taking place on December 15, 2017. Stage one is set for 3pm Friday, as stage two will take place on Thursday December 21 at 2pm.
