Know Your Yanks: Carlos Bocanegra

A new day means a new player! Let's take some time to get acquainted with one-time hotshot, now somewhat forgotten man Carlos Bocanegra.

Carlos Bocanegra broke into MLS with a splash in 2000, taking the league's Rookie of the Year award for his outstanding performances in the center of defense for the Chicago Fire. Blessed with good size, speed and decision-making skills, he was named MLS Defender of the Year in both 2002 and 2003, and appeared to be on his way to certain stardom with the U.S. National Team.
He transferred to English powerhouse of mediocrity Fulham in 2004, where he was used at both left-back and in the center of defense. This versatility allowed U.S. coach Bruce Arena to try him on the left (a trouble position for the U.S.) during the 2005 campaign, where Bocanegra met with mixed results. In the meantime, other U.S. defenders usurped his starting position in the center, then he subsequently lost his spot on the left to Eddie Lewis.
As a result of this misfortune, Bocanegra's role with the U.S. Men is unclear at the moment. He is not likely to start regularly in the World Cup, but he may get a look or two, and if he impresses, we may see more of him.

Career Highlights:

2000: Makes pro debut with the Chicago Fire (USA, Major League Soccer). Receives MLS Rookie of the Year. Wins U.S. Open Cup with Chicago.

2001: Makes U.S. Men's National Team Debut.

2002: Named MLS Defender of the Year. Named to MLS Best XI.

2003: Named MLS Defender of the Year. Named to MLS Best XI. Wins U.S. Open Cup with Chicago.

2004: Joins Fulham FC (England, Premier League) from MLS on a free transfer.

2005: Wins Gold Cup with USA.