VANCOUVER, BC – Vancouver Whitecaps FC announced today that the club has acquired New England Revolution's natural fourth-round pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft in exchange for the MLS rights to midfielder Daigo Kobayashi.



Kobayashi, 31, joined Whitecaps FC in January 2013 from J-League side Shimizu S-Pulse. The Fuji, Japan native scored three goals and added four assists in 32 total appearances with the 'Caps last season.



“Daigo is a good person and player but we just didn’t see a spot for him on the team moving forward,” said Whitecaps FC head coach Carl Robinson. “We wish him the best of luck in New England.”



It was announced on November 28, 2013 that Whitecaps FC had declined Kobayashi’s 2014 contract option; however, the club still held his MLS rights and Kobayashi joined the ‘Caps on trial earlier this preseason.



TRANSACTION: Vancouver Whitecaps FC (MLS) – Acquired New England Revolution's natural fourth-round pick in the 2016 MLS SuperDraft in exchange for the MLS rights to midfielder Daigo Kobayashi.



Whitecaps FC begin their 2014 MLS season on March 8 versus New York Red Bulls at BC Place. Season tickets start at just $349 and single-match tickets start at $22, subject to applicable fees. The 'Caps also offer a flexible range of ticket products, including half-season tickets ($244), 5-packs ($149), student season tickets ($199), and a youth soccer half-season ticket ($100). For more information on all Whitecaps FC ticket options, call 604.669.9283 ext. 2 or visit whitecapsfc.com/tickets.