Houston Dynamo midseason report card: Defenders
(image via Billy Mears)
We are nearly halfway through the MLS regular season with the Houston Dynamo having played 16 of their 34 games. This is the only competition the Dynamo are still participating in after being eliminated from both the CONCACAF Champions Cup and Lamar Hunt US Open Cup earlier this year. During the international break, we'll assess each positional group for the Dynamo and assign grades to each player based on their performance for the club up to this point. Today, we’re checking in on the defenders.
Ethan Bartlow – B
Ethan Bartlow has shown consistent improvement with each passing year. The young center back seamlessly fills in when called upon to relieve Erik Sviatchenko or Micael, who currently hold the starting positions. Bartlow's passing range has evolved, displaying a fearlessness in breaking lines. Defensively, he showcases solidity, rarely resorting to fouls when managing opponents in threatening positions. Additionally, Bartlow has contributed crucial goal-line clearances, rescuing the Dynamo from potential point losses.
Contract status: Under contract through 2025, club option for 2026
Chance of returning in 2025: 90%
Griffin Dorsey – C+
Griffin Dorsey started and played every minute in all competitions until a reckless foul just 5 minutes into the first Texas Derby earned him a red card. During those games, he faced struggles, finding it challenging to be as impactful while pushing up the field and often getting beaten by the opposition on the defensive end. However, Dorsey's performance has significantly improved since serving his suspension, even contributing two assists since his return. Last season, Griffin demonstrated his potential, raising expectations for his performance in 2024.
Contract status: Under contract through 2025, club option for 2026
Chance of returning in 2025: 90%
Franco Escobar – C+
Franco Escobar has been sidelined this season for several games due to a lower-body injury. Even in his limited minutes, Escobar's aggressive style of play significantly impacts the game when he is on the field. He exudes passion and determination, never backing down from a challenge. A natural winner, when fully fit, he commands the left-back position with authority. While his defensive prowess stands out, Escobar also demonstrates a willingness to advance up the field when opportunities arise. He actively seeks chances to create danger and contribute to the team's attacking efforts. Rumors circulated earlier in the season about interest from Tata Martino and Inter Miami, and it's likely they will resurface when the transfer window reopens in a month or so.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025
Chance of returning in 2025: 50%
Micael – A
Micael has been an absolute standout for the Houston Dynamo. The young center back displays a level of skill and composure that belies his age, standing out even among seasoned players. His teammates speak highly of him, with many anticipating an imminent move abroad. Micael exemplifies the caliber of talent expected from players emerging through MLS NEXT Pro and Houston Dynamo 2. While fans would undoubtedly love to see him continue defending in orange for the rest of his career, witnessing him excel in a higher league would be equally rewarding in the end.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025 & 2026
Chance of returning in 2025: 75%
Kieran Sargeant – D
Kieran Sargeant, much like Xavier Valdez, is yet to secure minutes for the first team. The League City native, who signed a homegrown contract with the Houston Dynamo earlier this year, has primarily served as an unused substitute in many fixtures this season. Nonetheless, the 21-year-old academy product has garnered significant playing time with Houston Dynamo 2. In the 8 matches where Kenny Bundy has fielded him, Sargeant has showcased his versatility by occupying various positions. As he continues to accumulate experience, his adaptability will prove to be a valuable asset in his pursuit of earning first-team minutes.
Contract status: Under contract through 2025, club option for 2026 & 2027
Chance of returning in 2025: 90%
Tate Schmitt – C
Tate Schmitt spent most of last year on the injured reserve list due to an early ACL tear that prematurely ended his season. Despite his return to the field, Schmitt appears to be struggling with rustiness. Ben Olsen, not overly impressed with Schmitt's performance, has kept him down in the depth chart, placing him behind Franco Escobar and Daniel Steres. Initially an attacker turned defender, Schmitt has failed to make a significant impact on both ends of the field. Opposing defenders have consistently stifled his attempts to advance up the field, while attackers have easily bypassed him en route to the goal. Schmitt's best chance for a resurgence in Houston may come through earning playing time in the Leagues Cup and the remainder of the season.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025
Chance of returning in 2025: 25%
Daniel Steres – B
Daniel Steres has transitioned into a backup role within Ben Olsen's preferred starting eleven. However, he has still accumulated a considerable amount of playing time, particularly in the left-back position. Steres has adapted to the full-back role, showcasing his versatility by comfortably using his right foot despite playing on the left side. His flexibility proves valuable when the team shifts to a three-center-back system during attacking phases. Steres has demonstrated competence in this unfamiliar position, highlighting his value as a versatile player in the team's depth chart.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025
Chance of returning in 2025: 50%
Erik Sviatchenko – B
Erik Sviatchenko has been exceptional since joining the Houston Dynamo. While his playing talent is undeniable, it's his leadership that truly sets him apart. Erik has assumed a mentoring role within the defensive unit, with both Micael and Bartlow benefiting from the wealth of knowledge he imparts. Sviatchenko has encountered some setbacks in the form of nagging injuries and fatigue, leading to occasional absences from Ben Olsen's starting lineup. However, the Danish center-back's impeccable timing and ball control consistently bolster the defense, providing support regardless of who is guarding the goal for the Houston Dynamo.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025
Chance of returning in 2025: 50%
