By BRIAN LEWIS

Curious at what the Red Bulls’ three newest signings are making? Well, according to the MLS Players Union, Jorge Rojas, Gabriel Cichero and Juan Pietravallo are combing for a pro-rated annual salary of $443,500. That’s hardly a shock, although I admit the breakdown was.

Rojas, who has been capped 82 times for Venezuela _ we’re waiting to hear if he’s getting called in for Wednesday’s game _ is a steal at $94,00. I’ll go on a limb and say that number got bought down by allocation money. Remember, Maracaibo wasn’t handling their business when it came to paying him on time; maybe he just wanted his coin up front. Either way, he and Dane Richards are the biggest bargains on the team.

Anyway, Gabriel Cichero is making $157,500. For my money, he’s probably worth that. He not only anchors the defense, but his distribution is vital to the offense. Hell, what’s MORE than vital? That’s how important it is, rather than see desperate longballs being boomed from the back like a puck being cleared. That would negate the midfield and make Rojas useless.

Pietravallo shockingly makes $192,000. Seems a tad high to me. But before you guys cry about Dema Kovalenko being let go because of money, remember he’s about to turn 31, while the Argentine is only 26. He clearly fits Juan Carlos Osorio’s wants better, both from his style of play and the fact thst he might be around for awhile.