Mike Grella to Columbus, Tyrone Mears to Minnesota after Re-Entry Stage 1

A New York Red Bulls fan favorite is heading to the midwest and a former MLS Cup champion lands in Minnesota.

In Stage 1 of the 2017 MLS Re-Entry Draft, midfielder Mike Grella was selected by the Colorado Rapids while right back Tyrone Mears was picked up by Minnesota United FC. Grella was subsequently traded to Columbus Crew SC for a second-round pick in the 2019 SuperDraft.

Grella had 16 goals and 13 assists in his first two seasons with the Red Bulls before having his last season with the team in 2017 hampered by injuries, allowing him to play just 362 minutes. Mears helped the Seattle Sounders capture the 2016 MLS Cup before being traded to Atlanta United last offseason. He would go on to make 16 starts, but lost his starting right back job to Anton Walkes midseason.

Per MLS rules, all three players will have their contract options picked up and will immediately be added to the roster of their new teams.

Stage 2 of the Re-Entry Draft will be held next Thursday at 3 pm ET. Unlike Stage 1, when clubs have to pick up the contract option of any player selected, clubs that make selections in Stage 2 of the Re-Entry Draft secure the right to negotiate a new deal with drafted players.

2017 MLS Re-Entry Draft - Stage 1 Results

ROUND 1

ROUND 2