Houston Dynamo midseason report card: Goalkeepers
(image via Travis Gallipo)
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.
Steve Clark – A
Steve Clark has showcased his prowess as one of the premier goalkeepers in the league this season. Despite being a seasoned 38-year-old, he continues to astound with his acrobatic saves, proving instrumental in numerous games for the Dynamo. With appearances in 13 regular season matches for Houston, he has secured 3 clean sheets while conceding only 13 goals. Particularly memorable was his stellar performance against Minnesota United, where he made 5 crucial saves, securing a vital road victory for the club. Unfortunately, his momentum was briefly interrupted by a facial injury sustained during the May 18 Texas Derby against FC Dallas. However, Steve is expected to make a return to the starting eleven once the break concludes.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025.
Chance of returning in 2025: 75%
Andrew Tarbell – B
Andrew Tarbell currently holds the position as the backup goalkeeper behind Clark and was designated as the goalkeeper for the single elimination USOC tournament. However, this year's cup run didn't match the success of 2023, as the team was unable to progress past their first match against Detroit City FC. Initially, it appeared that Tarbell might not see much action for the rest of the season but fate took a turn when Clark sustained an injury, providing Andrew with another opportunity. Since Steve's injury, Tarbell has been consistently starting every match. His standout performance includes tying Pat Onstad's record for single-game goalkeeper saves with 10 saves against the Colorado Rapids. Tarbell has proven to be a dependable backup for the club thus far in 2024.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025.
Chance of returning in 2025: 50%
Xavier Valdez – D
Xavier Valdez shows promise as a potential future goalkeeper for the Houston Dynamo. His current rating is primarily influenced by his lack of playing time with the first team. Despite being second choice in Steve's absence, Valdez holds the starting position for Houston Dynamo 2. At just 20 years old, he is actively gaining valuable experience in MLS NEXY Pro, which is crucial for both Ben Olsen and his coaching staff to observe. Additionally, his involvement with the Dominican Republic national team further showcases his development. The looming question remains whether another team will provide him with the opportunity to start before his time with the Dynamo arrives.
Contract status: Under contract through 2024, club option for 2025.
Chance of returning in 2025: 50%
