3-way trade up; Cardona deal next?

MANILA, Philippines - Meralco, Talk n Text and Air21 agreed yesterday to a three-way trade involving Beau Belga, Ali Peek and JR Quinahan in a prelude to a bigger transaction that would lead to Macmac Cardona’s transfer to the electric power franchise.

Peek rejoined Talk n Text, Quinahan went back to Air21 while Belga landed at Meralco.

Officials of the three teams said more deals could be sealed in the next few days, including Cardona’s jump to Meralco.

Meralco’s major problem is the player or package to swap for Cardona.

“We want to make sure to have a competitive roster. Wheeling and dealing will continue with the end result of getting our desire of having a competitive roster,” said Meralco coach Ryan Gregorio.

Air21 team manager Allan Gregorio said another transaction could be done in the next 24 hours.

He hinted they’re giving away one of their four first-round picks in the coming Rookie Draft.

By virtue of previous deals, the Express own the first, second, fourth and six picks.

Meralco and Talk n Text, being sister ball clubs under the group of companies of sportsman-businessman Manny Pangilinan, are barred from trading players directly. They need a conduit to make a trade.

The Meralco coach, however, is hopeful they would get Cardona.

“My problem is that I have no marquee player to trade for Macmac and I can’t trade my future picks. We’re on a rebuilding process. How can you continue your buildup when you have given away your picks?” said Gregorio.