Day-to-day status for cager Mercado

GUANGZHOU—Explosive guard Solomon Mercado’s foot injury has gone from bad to worse as the Smart Gilas Pilipinas five suffered another setback after earlier losing Japeth Aguilar for the remainder of the 16th Asian Games. The coaching staff decided to bench the 6-foot-1 Mercado in the Nationals’ 58-60 loss against Japan on Friday night due to an inflammation of the sole of his left foot. Mercado, one of three PBA stars loaned to Smart Gilas, was already smarting from a right ankle strain he sustained before the Asiad when he suffered the new injury. “It hasn’t gotten better,” said Mercado, who played limited minutes in the game against Iran and Qatar. “I’m overcompensating with my left and now it is hurting, too.” Smart Gilas coach Rajko Toroman said the 6-9 Aguilar will be out for six to eight weeks after a partial tear was found on the posterior collateral ligament of his right knee. “Surgery isn’t necessary but he must rest for six to eight weeks. Japeth is definitely out of the tournament,” said Toroman. Toroman said the coaching staff will evaluate Mercado’s fitness on a day-to-day basis. “Maybe he’ll play a little bit,” said Toroman. “He’s not 100 percent ready. He’s a warrior and I hope he can recover in two to three days.” Mercado is hoping he could bring his form back in time for the quarterfinals. “I’ve been doing therapy every day. Hopefully, I can play in the knockout stage,” said Mercado. “It’s very frustrating because I’m looking forward to play and help these guys. Now, I’m on the bench and can’t help any.” Toroman’s power forward post is now manned by Kelly Williams and Mac Baracael.