Seattle Sounders FC remarkable Audi MLS Cup Playoffs success by the numbers

Seattle Sounders FC are synonymous with success in the Audi MLS Cup Playoffs. And while there are likely to be plenty of tactical breakdowns of their greatness ahead of their fourth appearance in the MLS Cup in five years when they take on Columbus Crew SC on Dec. 12 (8:30 pm ET | TV & streaming info) at MAPFRE Stadium, let’s delve into some of the statistics surrounding their remarkable postseason run.

The Sounders performed well enough during the regular season to earn valuable home playoff games and they’ve cashed in on that opportunity to the tune of 15 consecutive postseason wins at Lumen Field, an MLS record.

Those 15 home wins in a row have come as part of a stretch that has seen the Sounders qualify for the playoffs in all 12 years of their MLS existence. While other teams have down seasons, the Rave Green have been the model of consistency.

Of course, a big part of that consistency revolves around performances from players who shine when the lights are brightest.

That’s especially the case with Seattle’s “big three.”

Jordan Morris has reached MLS Cup every year he’s been healthy. He missed the 2018 season with an ACL injury. And he’s not just happy to be there — the US men’s national team winger has six goals and three assists in 15 playoff games.

Then there’s Nico Lodeiro, who tied Carlos Ruiz’s Audi MLS Cup Playoffs record by extending a points streak to eight postseason matches with an assist on Gustav Svensson’s stoppage-time winner Monday night.

8 - @NicolasLodeiro tied Carlos Ruiz's #MLSCupPlayoffs record of 8 straight games with a goal involvement with his assist on the match-winning goal for @SoundersFC in the Western Conference Final. Inevitable. pic.twitter.com/nYGvbikuG6

— OptaJack⚽️ (@OptaJack) December 8, 2020

Finally, how money has Raul Ruidiaz been in the postseason? Nine goals and six assists in nine appearances. MLS Playoff GOAT?

Talk about Vela and Josef as much as you want. No player is as effective in big moments in the MLS as Raul Ruidiaz.

9 goals in playoffs over 3 years. He's led Seattle to 2 finals and won 1, with the other still pending.

Fired Seattle Sounders back to success.#MLS pic.twitter.com/XtcileBhXs

— Bertinho (@BertinhoMusic) December 8, 2020

And just for fun, there’s this stat from the newest NHL franchise that perhaps explains their most recent success.

just throwing this out there, but the @SoundersFC have made the #MLSCup Final each year since we were awarded our franchise. #goodluckcharms