Cheers.
Because its the most fun part of playing in the MLS, thats why I value them pretty high.
The real reason is, its a reliable source to get new domestic players in.
You can not buy domestic players from other MLS clubs. Trading players domestic players is hard.
You can not poach youth players from amateur/college teams.
Only your academy will provide constant players each year.
In the MLS balancing is the key.
Without a decent group of players from spot 14-30m you will problems at some point.