Thursday, April 17, 2008

Props: Shawn Mitchell

The interwebs have allowed more and more people to have their say about MLS, me included. But in the midst of all the bloggers, speculators and blowhards, a bunch of good beat reporters still work in several MLS cities.

We all know about Goff and Ives, who have set the standard pretty much. Once in a while, I will try to give some love to people who might not have the profile, but do pretty damn good work for their community.

The first guy I want to shine the spotlight on is Shawn Mitchell from the Columbus Dispatch. I really enjoy reading Shawn's stuff, whether it's his blog Covering the Crew or his work in the daily paper. He does a really solid and fair job of covering the team.

Today's story on the Crew's salary situation provides a perfect example. Instead of using the topic as a chance to bash MLS and go all Europoser, Shawn actually takes the time to talk to Brian Bliss about league rules and cut through as much of the mess as possible.

That's the kind of reporting MLS needs to grow in cities. A list of what celebrities have worn MLS jerseys accomplishes nothing. I hope the fans in Columbus realize they have a good thing in front of them and fans in other cities take the time to give Shawn his due.

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