Barako Bull, GlobalPort swap Cruz, Maierhofer

Barako Bull continued its search for a big man, this time acquiring Jervy Cruz from Globalport in exchange for Rico Maierhofer.

The PBA Office of the Commissioner approved the trade on Monday afternoon.

Though undersized, Cruz will definitely be a big boost for the Energy when it comes to the rebounding department, as evidenced by his long run with Rain or Shine.

He will team up with Mick Pennisi, and young bigs Prince Caperal and Yutien Andrada in holding the fort in the paint for coach Koy Banal.

This is the fifth transaction in the offseason for Barako Bull, as the squad continues to find the right mix of players to help its guard-heavy rotation.

The deal also aborted a possible reunion for Cruz and his former UST coach Pido Jarencio, after the 6-foot-4 forward was nabbed by GlobalPort back in August.

Rather, it will be Maierhofer who will reunite with with former teammates Dorian Pena, Doug Kramer, and Billy Mamaril in the Batang Pier camp.