Jesús Jiménez performing for TFC despite slow start

Toronto FC's season hasn't gotten off to the start many expected, sitting 12th place in the Eastern Conference with just 18 points in 18 matches (5-3-10). Hidden in that rough start is Toronto's off-season signing, 28-year-old forward Jesús Jiménez.

The Spanish international came to Toronto from Górnik Zabrze in Poland, and has taken the MLS by storm. So far, Jiménez has eight goals to his name, tied for third most in the MLS. He started off the season on fire, scoring seven of his goals in the first nine games of the season.

He was recognized and earned a spot on the MLS Team of the Week for matchweek eight for his performances. The season couldn't have started much better for him, but all good things must come to an end.

After his amazing start, Jiménez didn't touch the back of the net for his next seven games. While this may sound like a slump for some, being a forward isn't only about scoring goals. As a forward, there is more than one way to impact the game, and Jiménez has been elite at setting his teammates up for chances.

Jesus Jimenez has been a bright spot in Toronto FC's season

Despite not scoring in that stretch, he picked up two assists in that time frame. For both of his assists, he received the ball and played it across the field to find an open man. Jiménez is a true forward that can score goals and also create for his teammates.

Jiménez is the Reds leading scorer thus far, and has netted 33.3% of the team's goals and has been directly involved with 11 of Toronto's 24 goals. In addition, he got back on the scoring sheet when he scored his eighth goal against the Columbus Crew on June 29.

With superstar Lorenzo Insigne and new signing Federico Bernardeschi ready to join the lineup, an exciting attacking trio of Jiménez, Insigne and Bernardeschi could bring the former MLS Cup champions back to the top.

Now, Jiménez has players that can supply him with consistent chances and his form should get even better. The 12th-placed Reds have a lot of work to do to get back into form, but Jiménez and company have the ability to get the job done.