PABA intensifies East Asia Cup prep

The Philippine Amateur Baseball Association (PABA) is working double-time to complete upgrades at the Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium ahead of the East Asia Cup from 5 to 14 December.

PABA secretary general Michael Asuncion said preparations are about 70 percent complete, with artificial turf materials already in the country and ready for installation. The scoreboard is also ready, while lighting works are underway in anticipation of night games.

Hataw Pilipinas will be seeking its seventh title in the six-nation tournament, which also features Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, Hong Kong and Vietnam.

“We’re working double-time now. Tomorrow, we have an inspection with the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways). They’re very supportive, as is the PSC (Philippine Sports Commission),” Asuncion said during Wednesday’s episode of “Off the Court,” DAILY TRIBUNE’s weekly online sports show.

“Our artificial turf materials are already here in the Philippines and ready for installation. Our scoreboard is also ready. We’re connecting the lights because we expect to have night games throughout the tournament.”

With about a month left before the competition, Asuncion acknowledged that the association still has plenty of work to complete but remained confident of meeting the deadline.

“We have to get a lot of work done in the next 30 days, but we can do it,” Asuncion said.

“The most important thing is the playing area. The grandstand is almost done; we just need to install the seats. Everything else needs to be cleaned.”

The Rizal Memorial Baseball Stadium carries a rich history, having hosted some of baseball’s biggest names. Lou Gehrig hit its first home run during an exhibition game in December 1934 followed by Babe Ruth.

On the national team front, Asuncion said the coaching staff is making lineup adjustments, with particular attention to strengthening the pitching rotation.

“We’re focused on pitching. We need a stronger and faster pitching lineup. That’s where the real fight is,” Asuncion said.

“I think we’re around 90 percent. That’s just right so we can peak on the day of the match.”