The Dolphins had to double their effort in Series 7 because their collegiate players were not able to play in the playoffs because of the UAAP season.
A freak injury to Jonash Ponce while sliding to third place in a game compounded to their woes as the Dolphins lost the veteran for the season.
But with all the challenges that the Dolphins faced in Series 7, the Dolphins still made it to the semifinal but were eliminated by the Batangas Bulls.
But Jon De Ubago, the playing assistant team manager of the Dolphins, said that Series 8 will be different.
“We are a much complete team,” said De Ubago during Baseball Philippines’ guesting at the Philippine Sportswriters Association (PSA) Forum at the Shakey’s United Nations Avenue.
The team coached by Isaac Bacarisas practically has the same line-up as in Series 7 with lefty pitcher Joseph Orillana still with the team along with slugger Miggy Corcuera, the Home Run King of Series 2, and Ponce.
“We are looking pretty healthy and complete. We are more prepared,” said De Ubago, who was part of De La Salle’s 2000 and 2002 championship team with Orillana.
Before Manila won two consecutive titles, Cebu was the club which has the most number of titles in the league winning the Series 2 and 4 crowns before the Sharks tied the Dolphins in Series 7.
And Cebu has all the intentions on becoming the winningest team in Baseball Philippines again.
“We hope to get the championship away from the Manila Sharks,” De Ubago said.
–by: Reuben Terrado
