The Sounders Tuesday signed 2016 MLS SuperDraft second-round pick Tony Alfaro, a 22-year-old defender who was a Division II All-America selection last season at Cal State Dominguez Hills. Seattle also loaned third-year centerback Damion Lowe to Minnesota United of the NASL and acquired targeted allocation money and an international roster spot from Toronto FC in exchange for general allocation money.
“We’re pleased to add a talented player like Tony to our roster as the 2016 season gets going,” said general manager Garth Lagerwey. “He’s obviously a player we liked in the draft when we selected him and we’re looking forward to continuing his development.”
Alfaro was selected first-team All-America by the NSCAA and a Division II CCA second-team All-America after starting all 21 of his appearances as a senior. Alfaro led the Toros with 1,954 minutes, along with six goals. The Santa Barbara native started 71 of his 75 appearances in his collegiate career.
“Tony is a big centerback with good feet and solid technical abilities who did well for us throughout the preseason,” said coach Sigi Schmid. “He’s a player with real potential who we think can provide good depth for us on the backline.”
Lowe was the club’s first-round pick (eighth overall) in the 2014 SuperDraft, but has yet to make an appearance with the Sounders’ first team. The Jamaican international started 14 of 17 appearances last season for Sounders FC 2, scoring one goal and one assist.
Following a 1-0 home loss Sunday to Sporting Kansas City in the opening match of the regular season, Sounders play at 1 p.m. Saturday against Real Salt Lake at Rio Tinto Stadium.
