I would play that.

Sounders at Heart actually have a great graphic that shows that it isn't a big change when it comes to the months played in (if you include the playoffs)

I guess a combination of trying to stay within the same transfer window as the European leagues and the extended winter break? Bundesliga usually starts second half of August, but only has a 2 week winter break.

Or any dental procedure.

That is a pretty good summary. The inability (for whatever reason) to defend a lead has bitten us multiple times this season, again tonight.