Sharks target one more baseball title

MANILA, Philippines - Fresh from their third straight title conquest, the Manila Sharks vowed to extend their reign in Baseball Philippines series as they go for a four-peat in BP Series 9.

Harbour Centre Manila Sharks general manager Rich Cruz said the hunger factor is still there for the team to go all out for another milestone, which is claiming their fourth consecutive title in the country’s major baseball league.

“We definitely want to win again,” said Cruz in yesterday’s PSA Forum at the Shakey’s UN Avenue. “Many are asking if we are still hungry for another title but the challenge will still be there.”

The Sharks swept the Series 8 best-of-three title showdown after a 10-4 victory over the Cebu Dolphins in Game 2 last Sunday to annex a record third straight crown.

For his part, Manila head coach Jhoel Palanog said they will definitely build a strong line-up for next series.

“Kailangan na rin natin i-explore ‘yung ganung option na mag-hire ng bagong players kasi may mga players na balak ng mag-retire. Malaking tulong ang maibibigay nila sa team (We need to tap new players who will take the spots of those who plan to retire. They will indeed be a big help to the team),” said Palanog, who was also joined by Series 8 Finals Most Valuable Player Saxon Omandac, Jon Jon Robles and Marvin Malig in the session presented by Smart, Pagcor, Outlast Battery, and Shakey’s.