Geelong big man Esava Ratugolea has got his wish to join Port Adelaide, with the Cats improving their draft prospects as part of the exchange.
With less than three hours left in the AFL Trade Period, the Cats have dealt the 25-year-old to the Power in return for picks 25, 76 and 94 at next month’s National Draft.
Ratugolea, who was chased by Port while still under contract at the end of last year, played 75 games in the Hoops after arriving at Kardinia Park via pick no.43 in the 2016 National Draft.
His best game return came in 2019 when he made 20 appearances, including three of his five finals, and kicked 15 goals,
“Esava is a quality person who has been committed to our football program, and we wish him all the best in his football future,” Cats football boss Andrew Mackie said.
“While we are disappointed to lose Esava, we acknowledge he was out of contract and requested a trade to Port Adelaide.
We have now strengthened our 2023 draft hand and remain open-minded to possibilities heading into the Draft.”
Geelong will take selections 8, 25, 76, 87 and 94 into next month’s draft.
With rookie Oscar Murdoch’s management confirming to K rock that the local product will receive another year as a rookie, only the futures of Flynn Kroeger and mid-season draftee Mitch Hardie remain up in the air.
