He then returned to the United States and graduated from El Monte High School.
At some point during the season, he moved to the UNAM Pumas in the Primera División de México.
In February 1996, the Colorado Rapids selected Rodriguez in the 10th round (92nd overall) of the 1996 MLS Inaugural Player Draft.
[1] In August, he injured his left hip flexor which forced him to miss several games.
On November 8, 1996, the Rapids traded Rodriguez to the Los Angeles Galaxy in exchange for a potential 1997 draft pick.