Columbus Crew sign midfielder Santiago Rodríguez from Brazilian club Botafogo

The Columbus Crew acquired midfielder Santiago Rodríguez from Botafogo, the club announced Wednesday. The 26-year-old Uruguayan signed a contract running through the 2029-30 MLS season with an option for 2030-31. Rodríguez joins as a Designated Player, marking the team’s second such signing this summer following the addition of Brais Méndez from Real Sociedad. He previously played four seasons with New York City FC, where he recorded 34 goals and 28 assists across 144 appearances. His arrival follows the departures of Diego Rossi and Max Arfsten, alongside the recent signing of Josef Martínez. Currently sitting 15th in the Eastern Conference with 20 points, the Crew seek to improve their standing as they sit five points outside the playoff spots during the final stretch of the 2026 campaign.

• 8:16 PMYahoo Sports — Columbus Crew acquire Santiago Rodríguez from Botafogo