Denton and Gray waived
In a move that wasn’t much of a surprise, the Quakes have waived defenders Eric Denton and Kelly Gray.
In both cases, younger, cheaper players won out over the more established veterans. Denton lost his starting left back spot to Mike Zaher a little over a month ago, while Brandon McDonald’s ascension as an option in the center of defense made Gray expendable.
It’s a bit stunning to think that just four years ago, Gray had what looked to be a breakout season as the Quakes’ right back. I was certain that I was looking at a future All-Star then, but the team’s move to Houston seemed to knock him for a loop more than anyone. He was never really the same after that, despite being given ample opportunity to prove himself as both a holding midfielder and a center back in Houston, Colorado, and a return stint in San Jose.
Kelly Gray, you put your heart into your play! You played like you loved being a Quake and we’ll miss you! You are a class act! A pint for you if I ever see you at a soccer related event! Get your coaching licenses and give the game some of your seasoned view! Cheers!
Matt, Casbah season ticket holder despite being in DC!
No slight intended for Denton who played controlled and steady. Thank you for your effort for SJEQ PART TROIS!
Good Luck to them where ever they land. Thanks for your service, you will be missed.
We’ll miss ya Kelly!
Eric Denton and Kelly Gray,
Thanks for representing the quakes this and last season. i am proud to call you guys quakes
kelly gray played for the galaxy too
Wow… Kelly is such a nice guy who really loved being a Quake… I saw it coming but it is still sad. :-( Eric I didn’t see that one… I thought his efforts on the pitch were good… It is hard to see the down-to-earth good guys go… it isn’t the same as some of the previous trades. :-(
Kelly and Eric, you guys will be missed a lot… thanks so much for being an Earthquake!
Not sure that Kelly could not resurrect his career on a USL side with more playing time as a central defender. Good luck to Denton and Gray and appreciate their hard work as Quakes.
it is tough to see Denton leaving.
Muy Cerca, that’s what I was thinking. He starred at Portland in college. Maybe he can sign with the Timbers, resurrect his career with some steady playing time there, and then get a spot on Portland’s MLS team (assuming that happens).
I am bummed to see Kelly and Eric cut. Our team is not crap because of these two.
So, who are we signing to take their roster spots? Are we going to snag some killer central midfielder from Saprisa? or Alajuela? Or are we going back to USL scrubs and guys from Caribbean club teams?
Go Quakes!
Eric and Kelly,
I’m very sorry to hear this news, as you were great Quakes and we thank you for all your hard work. I can assure you that wherever you land, the Quakes fans will never boo you when you return to play here against us… unless you go to LA. Then all bets are off.