by Ridge Mahoney @ridgemax, Apr 3, 2017

The Colorado Rapids shook up their roster by waiving midfielderand trading defenderto Minnesota United in exchange for midfielder, winger, and an international roster slot.Minnesota United also claimed Cronin off waivers, thus completing a four-player move necessitated by CBA rules that prevented Colorado from trading Cronin because he had re-signed with the team last winter as an MLS free agent.Cronin and Burch were mainstays of the 2016 Rapids team that finished second in the Western Conference after finishing last the year before. Cronin played in all but one game and started each time; Burch started 27 of his 28 appearances. They had each started three of four games this season prior to the trade.“Sam and Marc formed part of the foundation that helped the Rapids achieve one of the best seasons in club history,” said Rapids head coachin a statement. “They were both valuable members of our team and our community and I’m confident they will have plenty of success for years to come.”Cronin, 30, started his pro career with Toronto FC in 2009 and has played 235 MLS games for TFC, San Jose, and Colorado. He has scored eight goals and registered 10 assists. He earned two U.S. caps in 2009.Burch, 32, has played 213 games combined for the Galaxy, Columbus, D.C. United, Seattle and Colorado. He has scored four goals and is among the league’s all-time leaders in assists among defenders with 24.“With this move we have added strength, leadership and MLS experience to our roster.” said MNUFC sporting directorin a statement. “Sam Cronin and Marc Burch were leaders on and off the field in Colorado and we are confident they will bring these important qualities to our club.”Saied, 26, was claimed by Minnesota United in the Expansion Draft last November after playing 50 games during two seasons in Columbus with no goals and six assists. He had started all three of his appearances for the Loons in March.Gatt, 25, signed with Minnesota United in mid-February following five seasons with Norwegian club Molde that were marred by injuries. He has yet to play in an MLS match. He has been capped twice by the USA.“While it is never easy to part with good players, we believe that this move is in the best interests of the club both in the short and long term,” said Rapids sporting director. “Mohammed is a proven talent in MLS and has a successful track record in the league. His passing quality is of the highest level and his ability to find passes between the lines and move the team forward are key qualities we want in our club.“Although Josh has had injury issues in the past his talent is without question. He brings pace and an attacking boldness which will provide our coaching staff with another weapon on attack. We’re confident the move to bring both of these young players to our club will help bolster our attack while providing us with additional cap flexibility to continue to improve our roster.”