Commerce City, CO– It’s been an offseason of change for Colorado Rapids. A head coaching change, accompanied by some big money moves from the front office, a steady piece for the Rapids has been sold. Cole Bassett, Rapids homegrown since 2018, has made his second exit from Colorado, the club announced Monday. This one is a shocker. He isn’t making a jump to the next level and is instead making the short trip to a familiar MLS foe, the Portland Timbers. 

Cole Bassett being traded within the league was not on the radar of many, if any, Rapids fans going into this offseason. Portland has been a frustrating team for Colorado to play against in recent years. They will be an early opponent in 2026, with the home opener against the Cascadia side, February 28. Bassett will be with them. 

Just on a personal level, this is a blow. It hasn’t been an offseason that has instilled much confidence into much...