For all the standout performances during the Seattle Sounders’ record-breaking start, none have been bigger than Raúl Ruidíaz. Last Sunday against Atlanta United, Ruidíaz scored his sixth goal of the season — off a perfectly placed João Paulo corner — which is the second most in the league and already half as many goals as his MLS career best.
Ruidíaz’s red hot start could have more to do with a clear state of mind than anything else. Playing the last guaranteed year of a contract can often build pressure or become a distraction that can hinder a player’s attitude and performance within the team.