Lucas Bartlett
DCU
Center Back
Controlled Center Back
Jul 26, 1997 (29)
6'3"
201 lb
Returns to contention for Cincinnati clash
Bartlett has completed his one-match ban and is eligible to feature in Wednesday's MLS matchup against Cincinnati after sitting out the trip to Orlando.
Analysis: Bartlett served his suspension against Orlando after receiving a second yellow card for time wasting during the previous meeting with the New York Red Bulls. The center-back's dismissal had forced his side to finish that match with 10 men, while Sean Nealis emerged as the primary replacement alongside Kye Rowles. With his disciplinary absence now behind him, Bartlett can compete for an immediate return to the starting lineup against Cincinnati, potentially sending Nealis back to the bench.
Sent off Wednesday
Bartlett received a red card in the second half of Wednesday's clash against Red Bull New York.
Analysis: Bartlett left his side with 10 men after being shown an unnecessary second yellow card for time wasting in the midweek game. The defender must now serve a one-game ban Saturday at Orlando, with his next chance to appear coming in a subsequent visit to Cincinnati. Sean Nealis was subbed on immediately after Bartlett's dismissal, suggesting he's the first option to cover at center-back alongside Kye Rowles, although the team also conceded shortly after that, and their defensive weakness could be made even more evident without the experienced player.
Nets Saturday
Bartlett scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal) and one chance created in Saturday's 3-3 draw against Vancouver Whitecaps FC.
Analysis: Bartlett scored on his only shot on goal during Saturday's draw. It was three goals from defenders for D.C. during the draw, a surprising source of a good offensive showing. Bartlett remains a more limited offensive option, with limited upside and a very low floor going forward.
Scores in loss
Bartlett scored one goal to go with two shots (two on goal), one cross (zero accurate) and one chance created in Saturday's 2-1 loss to Charlotte FC.
Analysis: Bartlett delivered at both ends for D.C. United in the defeat to Charlotte, scoring his side's lone goal and adding another shot on target along with one chance created. The captain levelled the game early in the second half when he rose to head home a free kick, and he did not neglect his main job either with two tackles, two interceptions and four clearances. He has now registered four or more clearances in 10 consecutive games, and the goal was his third of the season, a healthy return for a center back.
Suspension served
Bartlett has served his one match suspension and will be an option for the match vs New England on Wednesday.
Analysis: Bartlett will return to his starting XI role for D.C. United, having started every league match this season. He's averaging roughly 7.5 clearances per game and has added 20 blocks and 15 tackles across 18 appearances.
Serving suspension
Bartlett is set for a one match suspension and will miss the clash with Montreal on Aug 15.
Analysis: Bartlett's streak of 18 consecutive appearances comes to an end as he'll miss his first match of the season due to suspension. He's been an ironman for D.C. United, starting all 18 games while scoring twice, piling up 135 clearances, adding 20 blocks, and helping secure four clean sheets. In his absence, Sean Nealis is the most likely candidate to step into the lineup, depending on his fitness.
Scores fourth in 4-4 draw
Bartlett scored one goal to go with two shots (one on goal) and two chances created in Saturday's 4-4 draw against CF Montreal. In addition, he was given a yellow card in the 100th minute.
Analysis: Bartlett scored, assisted by Keisuke Kurokawa in the 87th minute. This put the game to 4-2 with just minutes to go, and D.C. United surely thought they had won. Montreal scored two in injury time to draw 4-4. This was his second goal in four games and his first time taking two shots in the last eight games, although he has taken at least one shot in the last four matches.
Scores first since 2024
Bartlett scored on his only shot in Saturday's 2-2 draw with Nashville SC. He was also whistled for three fouls committed.
Analysis: Bartlett headed home from close range to give D.C. United a two-goal cushion just under the 30-minute mark in the first half. The goal was the first for the centerback since 2024. He'll look to get involved on set pieces again in Wednesday's home tilt with the Chicago Fire.
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