The Columbus Crew fired head coach Caleb Porter on Monday after Sunday's loss eliminated them from post-season contention.
The Crew could have clinched a berth with a draw against Orlando City SC but instead lost 2-1.
Orlando City converted a penalty kick in the 84th minute to snap a tie and defeat the Crew.
Columbus also played to a tie with expansion Charlotte FC on Wednesday.
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Porter recorded a 45-43-37 regular season record and helped the club secure an MLS Cup (2020) and the Campeones Cup (2021).