SAN JOSE, Calif. – The San Jose Earthquakes announced today that the club has acquired midfielder Atiba Harris from the Colorado Rapids in exchange for midfielder Marvin Chavez.
Harris, 28, has 22 goals and 20 assists during his eight-year MLS career. Most recently, he scored five goals and had one assist in 29 appearances while helping the Colorado Rapids reach the 2013 MLS Cup Playoffs. He has spent his entire career in the Western Conference with stops at Real Salt Lake, Chivas USA, FC Dallas, Vancouver Whitecaps FC and Colorado.
“Atiba has been a successful player in this league for a number of years. We’ve always had our eyes on him and we’re happy to bring him to San Jose,” said Earthquakes head coach Mark Watson.
In addition to his experience in MLS, Harris has 27 caps for the Saint Kitts and Nevis national team. Harris holds a United States permanent resident card and will not count as an international player on the roster.
“We’re excited to have Atiba join the Earthquakes. He’s a proven MLS veteran and will have a big impact on our team,” said Earthquakes general manager John Doyle.
Chavez, 30, scored four goals and had 14 assists in 42 appearances during his two seasons in San Jose. Three of those goals and 13 of those assists came during a breakout 2012 campaign. In 2013, his numbers dropped off, making just 15 appearances while missing time due to injuries and Honduran national team call-ups.
“We want to thank Marvin for his service. He had some great moments with this club and was a key member of that 2012 Supporters’ Shield team,” Doyle said.
Transactions:San Jose Earthquakes (MLS) – San Jose Earthquakes acquire M Atiba Harris from Colorado Rapids in exchange for M Marvin Chavez.
Atiba Harris
Position: Midfielder
Height: 6-3
Weight: 170 lbs.
Born: Jan. 9, 1985 in Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
Hometown: Basseterre, Saint Kitts and Nevis
Last Club: Colorado Rapids
Citizenship: Kittitian / Holds U.S. Permanent Resident Card
