Defiantly repair the area and install a Cliffy to both this and the Sarlacc pit. I had the same problem with mine. Fairly minimal wear but installing the Cliffy's made all the difference. Just make sure you carefully patch the hole first with a wood filler and gently sand it back level otherwise the Cliffy will end up moulding itself to the worn area below.
You may still get the odd drain coming out of this hole but rarely.

+1

You can also try loosening the four mounting screws for the scoop assembly and turning the assembly to the left (so the ball is aimed at the flipper). Tighten the screws and test. This can help with the drain balls !