SMB not rushing June Mar

MANILA, Philippines — The San Miguel Beermen aren’t rushing the return of superstar June Mar Fajardo to the team’s ongoing training sessions.

Fajardo sat out the pandemic-hit 2020 season due to a fractured right tibia (shinbone) sustained in practice a year ago. The six-time MVP is expected to be back in action for SMB’s redemption bid in Season 46.

“June Mar is still doing his rehab as prescribed by Dr. (Raul) Canlas and supervised by our PT Edward Bacason. We are following the schedule strictly as we want him to heal and recover in the proper time,” SMB team manager Gee Abanilla told The STAR yesterday.

As to when at the earliest they expect Fajardo to finally rejoin the Beermen in their small group, non-scrimmage physical conditioning sessions, Abanilla said it all depends on how fit he is for such activities.

“We have to seek clearance first from Dr. Canlas and also ask June Mar how he feels,” he said.

Another reinforcement is on his way to SMB with newly-acquired CJ Perez set to attend the team’s workouts for the first time since his blockbuster trade from Terrafirma.

“CJ tested negative already and completed the GAB (Games and Amusements Board) medical (requirements) so most likely he will practice by tomorrow (today),” said Abanilla.

San Miguel recently acquired the rights to the 2019 Rookie of the Year in exchange for Russel Escoto, Matt Ganuelas-Rosser, Gelo Alolino and two draft picks. He finished his duties for Gilas Pilipinas in their training bubble and completed the requirements before coming on board his new team.

Perez is expected to infuse fresh legs and all-around skills to a San Miguel crew that struggled big time in the last PBA bubble.

With Fajardo out and injuries hitting other key players like Terrence Romeo, the Beermen faltered in their six-peat bid and crashed out in the All-Filipino quarterfinals versus lower-ranked Meralco.

Coach Leo Austria’s wards started their buildup for the new season last Feb. 1 via the government-approved workouts by groups of five players.