The Crew SC sent three players to its USL affiliate, the Pittsburgh Riverhounds, on Wednesday.
Defender Chad Barson and midfielders Christian Martinez and first-round pick Rodrigo Saravia were loaned on a game-by game basis. All three started and played extensively in the Riverhounds’ 4-1 loss to FC Montreal.
Barson’s assignment is not a surprise with new center back Nicolai Naess likely to dress and possibly start Saturday night against New York City FC. It marks Barson’s second trip to the USL this season along with five appearances for the Crew. Wednesday night, he received a red card for a challenge in the 78 th minute.
Despite riding a nine-game winless streak, Crew coach and sporting director Gregg Berhalter has said he’s not playing for the future right now. The decision to send down Martinez is further evidence. The 19-year-old midfield has made just two appearances, but scored a goal on June 1 against the Philadelphia Union.
Saravia, 23, has played eight games with Columbus, featuring as a midfielder and center back.
The Crew (3-8-10) was off Wednesday, but returns to the practice field Thursday.
@treed1919