Rapids sign "the Beast" Julien Baudet

June 30, 2:42 PMColorado Rapids ExaminerDeron White

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(AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

The long expected announcement that the Rapids have signed Julien Baudet has finally occurred.  

The first rumors of Julien Baudet were reported back on March 23.  The signing was initially a rumor found on tribalfootball, but was gained momentum and credibility as The Sun and the BBC reported direct quotes from Baudet that he was approached by and would be joining the Rapids.

Baudet's a big central defender who is nicknamed, "the Beast".  In a very nice interview with the Rapids official blog, The Undercurrent, Baudet credits the nickname to his size and performance.  

"When you are 6’3 and 95 kilos (209 lbs.) like I am, the first thing that any manager or any person is going to look at is your physical presence. The Beast was given to me for my performance at the back." - The Rapids Undercurrent

Baudet's club career begain in Toulouse in his native France.  He played in France for several years before moving to England where he played for a string of second or lower division teams: Oldham Athletic, Rotherham United, Notts County, and most recently Crewe Alexandra.  

Julien turned thirty this year, which is an age that should allow him to compete in MLS for four to six seasons depending on his performance and health.

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