Goalkeeper: The Rangers will likely see a new face in goal this season with Adrian Zendejas having signed with Sporting Kansas City this offseason. Former Jersey Express goalkeeper David Grezcek – who was named the No. 23 prospect in the PDL last season – joined the club after being selected in the Third Round of the 2017 MLS SuperDraft, while Darrin MacLeod also has PDL experience after competing for K-W United FC and TFC Academy in the league while attending Drake University.

Defense: The key defensive duo of 2016 All-League First Team selection Amer Didic and Oumar Ballo returns, and center back partnership helped fuel the Rangers’ run of six wins in seven games to conclude the regular season. They are joined by a pair of reinforcements from Saint Louis FC in Parker Maher and James Musa. The group also includes some interesting young talent, with Ezra Armstrong and MLS SuperDraft selection Dakota Barnathan, and former Harrisburg City Islanders player Liam Doyle bringing his versatility to either the defense or midfield.

Midfield: No. 2 in the 2016 USL 20 Under 20, Kevin Oliveira’s season came to a premature end last year, but the Cape Verde standout is back for the new season looking to build on a strong first campaign. The Rangers also see captain Christian Duke return, while the addition of former Pittsburgh Riverhounds midfielder Lebo Moloto could be a good replacement for the departed Kris Tyrpak. SPR’s youngsters, like U.S. Youth internationals Will Little and Felipe Hernandez, will also be players to watch, as will rookie Louis Bennett after a strong career at Marquette University.

Forward: Mark Anthony Gonzalez returns after leading the Rangers with 12 goals in the regular season and postseason a year ago, while also adding five assists, and he is joined by 2015 USL Rookie of the Year Kharlton Belmar, previously of the Portland Timbers 2. Belmar’s addition should provide adequate cover for the departed Dane Kelly, while the Rangers will be looking for increased production from Nansel Selbol after one goal and one assist last year.