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Columbus Crew's Cucho Hernandez recognized as one of MLS' Best XI

Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez (9) shoots during the second half of the first round MLS Cup Playoffs matchup against Atlanta United at Lower.com Field.
Columbus Crew forward Cucho Hernandez (9) shoots during the second half of the first round MLS Cup Playoffs matchup against Atlanta United at Lower.com Field.

MLS has officially recognized the Crew's Cucho Hernandez as a top forward in the league this season, naming him one of the 2023 MLS Best XI.

The honor, which is decided by a mix of media members, MLS players and MLS club technical staff, is given to the best players at each position every year.

After losing star Lucas Zelarayan mid-way through the season, Hernandez stepped up as the Crew's primary weapon on offense, scoring a team-leading 16 goals through the regular season. In the first MLS Cup game of his career, Hernandez scored two goals to pace Columbus to a 2-0 win over Atlanta.

Now in his second regular season with the club and in the league, the Columbia native has notched 25 goals and 14 assists throughout his career.

Hernandez's season is still not over, as the Crew will take on FC Cincinnati on Saturday at 6:00 p.m. in a "Hell is Real" rivalry match to determine who gets a spot in the MLS Cup Finals.

More: Crew advance to MLS Eastern Conference Finals

bmackay@dispatch.com

@brimackay15

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This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Crew's Cucho Hernandez named to this season's MLS Best XI list