Cubs’ Kyle Schwarber out for season after tearing knee ligaments

Chicago Cubs slugger Kyle Schwarber is out for the season after tearing two knee ligaments in an outfield collision, a major setback for a team that many picked to win the World Series.

The Cubs made the startling announcement Friday, a day after the 23-year-old Schwarber was injured in a game at Arizona. An MRI exam revealed the injuries to his left knee and a sprained ankle. There was no immediate word on possible surgery.

A catcher by trade, Schwarber made his major league debut last year. He then broke loose by hitting a franchise-record five home runs in nine postseason games.

“He’s going to be missed. I mean there’s no sugarcoating. We love the guy. It’s a sad day here in our locker room,” Cubs catcher David Ross said.

“Freak things happen. You’ve got to move on. The game doesn’t wait around. He doesn’t want us to dwell,” he said.

Infielder Munenori Kawasaki was called up from triple-A Iowa to take Schwarber’s roster spot.

Etc.

The Reds called up first baseman Brandon Allen from triple-A Louisville on Friday, filling their open roster spot for a series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Cincinnati created the opening by sending starting pitcher Robert Stephenson back to Louisville after he got the victory in a 10-6 win over the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday. ...

The Detroit Tigers are granting an 89-year-old Holocaust survivor’s longtime wish to sing the national anthem at Comerica Park. Hermina Hirsch of Southfield, Mich., has been a Tigers fan since she moved to the Detroit area more than 60 years ago, WWJ-TV reported.

Hirsch’s family recorded a video of her singing her rendition and shared it on social media, WJBK-TV reported. The Detroit Tigers promotions department saw the video and told Hirsch on Wednesday that her wish will come true on May 21. ...

The Boston Red Sox unveiled virtual reality booths at Fenway Park, giving fans a chance to see players up close and in 360 degrees. Turn to your right, and David Price is throwing fastballs off a bullpen mound at the Boston Red Sox spring training ballpark in Florida. Wait a bit, and you’re standing in the cage with David Ortiz as he launches liners in batting practice.

The technology made its debut Friday when the ballclub gave a tour of the latest improvements for Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and members of the media in advance of Monday’s home opener.