Twitter: Portland Timbers and Steven Smith Part Ways

Some sad news for Portland Timbers fans as it appears that the Portland Timbers and Steven Smith will not be re-upping their contract heading into the 2013 season. Those of you who were with us for the bulk of the 2012 season will remember Smith as one of the most consistent defenders throughout the season. He'll surely be missed from the line up next year.

Heading into the 2013 season, Steve Smith would have undoubtedly commanded more money, however, the exact amount isn't known and it may just not have made any sense to the Timbers to keep him on. This also makes the Michael Harrington trade a bit easier to understand as he spent a large part of his time as a left back under Peter Vermes as he is a versatile player who can play in a few positions.

The Portland Timbers have declined to comment.

So long Smith, and thanks for making the 2012 season a little more bearable. Here's hoping you land somewhere decent.