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6. FC Cincinnati
Last season finish: 49 points; 5th in East, 10th in League; Lost in Conference Semis
Player to watch: M Luciano Acosta
FC Cincinnati spent its first three seasons as MLS's ultimate cellar-dwelling embarrassment. Things finally changed last year.
Cincinnati made the playoffs for the first time ever last season behind a three-headed attacking monster and smart defensive signings.
There might be a minor backslide on the Ohio River with the looming transfer of Brenner and depth issues throughout the defense, but Cincinnati is certainly talented to make another playoff run.