Three Orlando City Reserves to Watch in 2016

We’ve examined several topics regarding last season’s failed playoff run for Orlando City, and one that keeps being mentioned is depth. At all levels of the formation, improving the depth of the roster has been a primary concern following the mid-season collapse brought on by injuries, international call ups, and suspensions.

With transfers, trades, clean bills of health, and the 2016 MLS SuperDraft, we’ve seen names like Richie Laryea, Joe Bendik, Kevin Alston and more join the Lions to address some of these issues. Which reserves are likely to stick out this season? Let’s take a look:

Luke Boden

One half of the Killer Bees and the inspiration of the Bodenators, Boden proved to be an excellent asset last season, performing well when thrust into a starting spot at left back. Whether toying with defenders alongside Brek Shea or springing the speedy Carlos Rivas down the flank, Boden’s open field play is one of his strengths.

His ball skills, however, are what he's known for. His accuracy with crosses and corners is top notch, paired with a soft touch and a nose for the goal is what you love from the left back position.

Curving towards the top corner, this would be the only goal Inchy's boys would score against Toronto in three regular season matches and a friendly.

Adrian Winter

Often overlooked following his mid-season transfer, Winter became an instant upgrade over Eric Avila on the right side as a patchwork solution to filling the Kevin Molino void. With Molino back in the fold and the acquisition of Antonio Nocerino, we’re likely to see Winter sporadically when the Lions are at full strength.

Pacey enough with a good IQ for the game, Winter’s attacking position and poise were on full display in the second goal of his brace against Sporting Kansas City.

With an off-season training to get acclimated with teammates, we should look for more of this level of skill from Winter when he's called upon.

Bryan Rochez

A divisive figure even among our own staff, you can check out some of the different opinions at our staff roundtable from last weekend. You’ll find me siding with Sean Rollins in that Rochez seems poised for somewhat of a breakout year behind Cyle Larin in 2016.

Brought in initially as a young designated player, the club is certainly high on Rochez's talent. It proved to be a rough initial transition, with rumors of homesickness and a lost passport just the tip of the iceberg, but as Rochez settled in late last season we saw the talent that led to him getting his own billboard in the initial marketing campaign.

His game winner against the Chicago Fire was about as clutch as it gets, and Rochez has his eyes on creating more highlights.

What do you guys think? Which reserve players do you think we should watch for this season? Let us know in the comments below, and be sure to look for these guys to make an impact in 2016.