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Timbers fans know very little about Ian Hogg, who was signed on August 8th, the same day Mike Chabala was traded to D.C. United, which made room for him on the roster. The 22-year-old left back had just finished competing for New Zealand alongside Jake Gleeson in the London Olympics. Hogg also has four caps with the senior national team and, before coming to Portland, had played for six seasons in New Zealand's first division.
Hogg was signed through the remainder of the 2012 season, but the coaching staff made it clear that Timbers fans were unlikely to see him in the first team in 2012. Hogg did make one appearance with the reserve team in their final match against the Seattle Sounders reserves. Shortly thereafter, he rolled his ankle and spent the rest of the season recovering and working his way back to fitness.
Should He Be Kept On For 2013?
Yes. At this point, there does not seem to be any reason to trade, waive, or sell Hogg. He's young and, from what we have been told, possesses some raw talent. In his appearance with the reserves he showed patience and smart positioning on defense. On offense, his perseverance payed off when a deflected cross led to the Timbers third goal that afternoon. Given Caleb Porter's reputation for developing young talent, it makes sense that the Timbers would keep Hogg around to see what kind of player he will be.
Dissenting Opinion
Ryan: Ian Hogg was brought in for an extended trial because the there was an open roster spot. The thought was he is young and has potential but at this point Portland does not need young with potential. The Timbers need someone who can contribute now in a couple of key positions and for these reasons I believe Portland should open up his roster spot.