Philadelphia Union part ways with forward Jorge Perlaza

If you've been wondering over the last few weeks why forward Jorge Perlaza seemingly never came close to playing for the Union, you don't have to wonder anymore.

The Union and Perlaza agreed to a mutual parting of ways late Tuesday afternoon. It's not a surprise, considering that Perlaza hadn't played in the last 10 Union games. He did not even make the bench during that time, though he did play in some Reserve League games.

Since coming to Philadelphia in the trade that sent Danny Mwanga to Portland, Perlaza made just two appearances: eight minutes as a substitute against D.C. United on June 16, and a 64-minute start at Houston on June 30. He registered a total of one shot on goal in those two appearances combined.

Prior to the trade, Perlaza had established himself as a regular presence in the Timbers' lineup. He appeared in 10 of 12 games this year, and 31 of 34 games last year.

But regardless of what side of the country he has played on, Perlaza has struggles to find the back of the net. He has not scored in exactly 51 weeks, dating back to August 20, 2011. He scored a total of six goals last year, of which two game in the Timbers' first ever home game in Major League Soccer.

Even though Perlaza contributed very little, his departure weakens even further an already-limited Union attack. The team's forward corps now consists of Jack McInerney, Antoine Hoppenot, Chandler Hoffman and Josué Martinez - the last of whom is better-suited to an outside position than a true striker's role.

Cristhian Hernández is also listed as a forward on the Union's roster, but he can play a number of different positions.

The Union's next game is Wednesday night at PPL Park against Columbus. As Kerith Gabriel writes here, the Crew have no such worries, given the prolific form of Federico Higuaín and Jairo Arrieta.