TRANSFER TRACKER STATUS: Signing
The Columbus Crew have acquired midfielder Santiago Rodríguez from Brazilian Série A side Botafogo, the club announced Wednesday.
The 26-year-old Uruguayan is under contract through the 2029-30 MLS season with an option for 2030-31.
Rodríguez will be a Designated Player and is Columbus' second such addition this summer after Brais Méndez joined from LaLiga side Real Sociedad.
Rodríguez previously spent four seasons with New York City FC, tallying 34g/39a in 144 appearances. He helped guide the Pigeons to MLS Cup 2021 and Campeones Cup 2022 titles.
“We are thrilled to have Santi join our Club,” said general manager Issa Tall. “He has exceptional experience across multiple leagues, including MLS, and was part of championship teams. He has proven to be one of the best chance creators in our league through his technical quality and vision of the game.
"As he enters the prime of his career, Santi’s ability to influence the game and his proven leadership add another dynamic to our roster as we continue to contend for trophies in 2026 and beyond.”
After joining Botafogo in 2025, Rodríguez recorded 5g/6a in 58 matches. He also previously played for boyhood side Nacional and Montevideo City Torque in his home country.
Rodríguez joins a Columbus side that's been active in the summer transfer window. The Crew transferred out stars Diego Rossi and Max Arfsten, while also adding Méndez and legendary MLS striker Josef Martínez.
Back in early April, DP striker Wessam Abou Ali was sidelined for the remainder of the season with a knee injury.
As the 2026 campaign hits the stretch run, Columbus are 15th in the Eastern Conference (20 points). They are five points outside the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs places.
READ MORE: MLS Transfer Tracker
