Motte is probably the best player. He is rated 'only' #22 in the world, but he plays in the Bundesliga- the top league in Germany. And a country that is known for centers.
Pete Salmon plays in the USA League III. So it is easier for him to get higher ratings than Motte.
In the USA-Germany NT games, Motte has pretty much handled Salmon. But from what I understand, Motte has trained very little this entire season- owner can not afford his wages if he improves. And from what I know, Salmon has not trained any Center only skills the last month of the season (training Team or C/PF/SF) to likewise avoid salary increase.