Leagues Cup offers big chance for 'fringe players' at Toronto FC

With MLS on a hiatus, Toronto FC turns its attention to the Leagues Cup, a tournament that brings together every team from MLS and Mexico's Liga MX. 

TFC will compete in East Group 6 of the Leagues Cup with their opening match coming against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday (Apple TV/8:00 p.m. ET). The Reds then host Mexican outfit Pachuca on Aug. 4 (Apple TV/8:00 p.m. ET).

What will be interesting to see is how seriously Toronto coach John Herdman will treat the Leagues Cup. On the one hand, it's an opportunity for his team to build some chemistry and improve several on-field relationships with players coming back from injuries and international duty.

On the other hand, the Leagues Cup also offers Herdman a chance to give starting opportunities and valuable minutes to squad members who've been on the fringes of TFC's starting 11 this season.

Here are five players who could benefit from playing at the Leagues Cup.