Viewed through one lens, the Seattle Sounders have never entered the MLS Playoffs in a less advantageous position. In the 16 seasons they’ve qualified, their No. 5 seeding in the Western Conference is the lowest they’ve ever been. Their 10th-place spot in the Supporters’ Shield standings is also lower than in any season other than 2022 when they missed the playoffs entirely.

But to suggest they have no chance to win their third-ever MLS Cup is just being defeatist for no good reason.

While they are nothing like a favorite, they definitely have a puncher’s chance. As my colleague Tim Foss said earlier today, it’s also just a lot more fun to have hope.

Reasons for optimism

Let’s start out with reasons I think the Sounders at least have a chance to win this thing:

They’ve already proven themselves

It’s obviously true that the Sounders finished below four other Western Conference teams and nine total teams. But unlike all those teams but the Vancouver Whitecaps (Canadian Championship) and Philadelphia Union (Supporters’ Shield), the Sounders have actually won something this year. Even if you believe the Leagues Cup was the third or fourth most important trophy the Sounders were chasing, winning it...