After a right knee injury effectively ended Tally Hall’s career near the end of the 2015 MLS season, Orlando City brought in former Toronto FC and Portland Timbers goalkeeper Joe Bendik. The newly acquired goalkeeper quickly became a fan favorite, being one of the bright spots on an otherwise poorly performing team. In his first two seasons in Orlando, Bendik conceded 1.67 goals per game and recorded 12 clean sheets. During the 2017 season, he broke the club’s all-time saves record of 231, previously held by Miguel Gallardo.
Heading into the 2018 season, Bendik was expected to be one of the few solid returners in a mostly new lineup.