Kasey Keller gets another nod of recognition. This time through the power of the fans who selected his flurry against the San Jose Earthquakes as the Major League Soccer Save of the Year. Pulling in 42% of the vote the Seattle Sounders keeper beat out Troy Perkins' two nominations and outfield player Teemu Tainio's incredible move.
Already an American Legend Keller quickly becomes one in MLS as he pulls in MLS Best XI, Keeper of the Year and Save of the Year. This is his third second win in the Save of the Year category. He can't win in 2012, but there is little doubt he still could. Maybe the award next year should recognize how great an influence Keller had on the young league.
It may be time for an MLS award to bear the name of one of its greats. MLS should rename the Save of the Year after a keeper who owned the award, one of the greatest players to play the position and a legend within North American soccer. Baseball named the best DH award after Edgar Martinez, so the idea isn't unique, but it seems so fitting.
In 2012 it would be a nod to greatness when Troy Perkins is up for the MLS Keller Save of the Year award.