5 players to watch when the Union begin their hunt for the MLS Cup

These will be the top five guys to pay attention to when the first round of the MLS Playoffs kick off Wednesday night between the Union and Toronto FC.

Sebastian Giovinco

Giovinco finished third in the MLS in scoring (17) this season, and for good reason. The attacking midfielder from Italy can score in a variety of ways and is relentless on the offensive end. He also registered 15 assists on the year, which ranked second in the MLS. Simply put, when the ball is in his hands, he’s dangerous to stop.

Jozy Altidore

One of the most familiar faces in U.S. soccer history has done damage in Canada all year for Toronto FC. The 6-foot-1 forward netted 10 goals in his second season with the team and proved why he’s still one of the most potent scorers in the U.S. when healthy.

Andre Blake

Blake proved time and time again why he should be looked at as the MVP of this playoff-bound Union team. Blake saw 150 shots this season, saving 99 of them for a 1.56 goals against average. Many of the shots he turned away were of a high level of difficulty and kept the Union in games they should’ve had no business being in. He’ll be called upon again on Wednesday night.

Chris Pontius

The elder statesman in the Union’s offensive attack turned out to be the team’s most reliable scorer by the end of the season. Pontius’ 12 goals led the team, and with C.J. Sapong and Fabian Herbers struggling to find the net as of late, he’ll need to be in top form against Toronto FC to give this team a chance to win.

Keegan Rosenberry

Keeping the ball away from the box will be the top task for the rookie Rosenberry. Once viewed as the consensus Rookie of the Year, his play has slipped of late and his grasp on the trophy has fallen. He’s still one of the top right backs in the league and he can prove it once again on Wednesday.