PHOTOS: #4 Revs Moment of 2013

MOMENT 4: The Juan Agudelo Trade

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

Promising would not be the adjective many would use in describing the Revolution’s form right out of the gate. After scoring only two goals in their first six games, something had to be done. And that something was the trade that brought Juan Agudelo from Chivas USA to New England.

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

His transition to a new club, and a new locker room was seamless. He joked and bantered with teammates as if he had spent the entirety of his young career in Foxboro. Although he was fighting to get back from a groin injury, the 20-year-old would soon prove his worth on the pitch, as well.

Photo credit: Chris Aduama/aduamaphotography.com

He scored in his debut at Houston on May 18, and scored again two weeks later in front of the home supporters for good measure.

Photo credit: Chris Aduama/aduamaphotography.com

His most impressive strike came on Aug. 17 against the Fire. In the 54th minute of a scoreless match, he chased down a long Chris Tierney ball and chipped Sean Johnson with a spectacular side-footed volley that cleared the line before Bakary Soumare promptly ushered it out.

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

Agudelo’s impact on the side was undeniable. The Revolution averaged a full goal more when Agudelo was on the field than when he was absent due to injuries.

Photo credit: Kari Heistad/capturedimages.biz

In August, the talented striker signed a pre-contract with EPL side Stoke City, but remained in Foxboro for the duration of the MLS season. His goodbye present? Helping the Revolution reach the postseason for the first time since 2009.