San Miguel Beer ready to release Fajardo ‘The Kraken’ next week
SAN MIGUEL BEER (SMB) coach Jorge Gallent said seven-time MVP June Mar Fajardo will miss just one more game before his reactivation at the close of the elims and in time for the playoffs push.
“June Mar is coming back when we play Blackwater on Jan. 12,” Gallent said on CNN Philippines’ Sports Desk.
Mr. Fajardo has been out of commission since sustaining a metacarpal fracture in SMB’s 115-110 victory over Rain or Shine om Nov. 29. The injury, didn’t require surgery and the Cebuano just needed time for his left hand to heal.
With the 6-foot-10 Mr. Fajardo in sick bay, the Beermen lost two games then bounced back with three straight victories en route to a 6-3 win-loss card and a legit shot at a Top 4 position and the twice-to-beat advantage in the quarterfinals.
Mr. Fajardo will continue to sit out when SMB resumes its PBA Commissioner’s Cup campaign Sunday against also-ran Terrafirma. His return five days later will be a big boost with the playoffs race heating up.
Mr. Gallent said the team expects Mr. Fajardo to have little problem getting back in form.
“When he got injured, he was always lifting weights so that he didn’t get out of shape, which is very good news for us,” he said.
Mr. Fajardo averaged 19.3 points, 11.8 rebounds and 3 assists in four outings prior to his sidelining. — Olmin Leyba
