With time running out on negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement between MLS and the MLS Players Union, Portland Timbers defender Nat Borchers remains "hopeful" a deal will get done before the start of the season.

The two sides are set to resume talks on Sunday in Washington, D.C., at the offices of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Services, and the hope is that a first work stoppage in league history can be avoided.

Free agency remains the most contentious issue. MLS is completely against any form of free agency, while the MLSPU has threatened to strike if the new CBA doesn't at least partially address the issue. Minimum salaries and the size of the salary cap are also among the key issues.

Speaking to ESPNFC.com as he prepared to board a flight to Washington, D.C. for the upcoming meetings, Borchers declined to comment on any of the specifics as it related to the talks, including whether the union had taken a strike vote.

"I think it's important that we keep the specifics of those items behind closed doors," he said. "I want to respect the process and both sides. We're very hopeful in the next two or three days that were going to come up with something that's a win-win solution."