The Keeper

Sean Johnson has come to New York via trade from Chicago for cash. The former US National Teamer has been one of the best keepers in MLS since his arrival. In 176 starts over seven years, he has a 1.42 GAA and 36 shutouts.

Returning Josh Saunders will do his best to retain the starting role but it will be hard for him to make a case coming off of a 1.66 GAA and the most goals allowed in the league in 2016.

The Pitch

The tiny pitch squeezed into the baseball diamond at Yankee Stadium may not be a home field advantage for NYCFC. Last season, the club was much better on the road than at home.

While the Bronx Blues do attract a nice crowd, the Stadium pitch still needs some work.