Cubs prospect stumbles in debut

CHICAGO — Kris Bryant had such a Chicago Cubs-like start to his major league career.

Called up one day after the team ensured he can’t be eligible for free agency until 2021, the prized prospect struck out in his first three at-bats against James Shields and went 0 for 4 in a 5-4 loss to San Diego Padres on Friday.

Seeking their first World Series title in 107 years, the Cubs selected Bryant’s contract from Triple-A Iowa and inserted him into their starting lineup as the cleanup hitter and third baseman.

Bryant cleanly handled Derek Norris’ sharp first-inning grounder, starting a 5-4-3 double play. Following a two-out walk to Anthony Rizzo in the bottom half, Bryant was given a standing ovation as many in the crowd took photos.

With fans still on their feet, Bryant swung through three pitches for an inning-ending strikeout. He foul-tipped an 89 mph cutter on the low, outside corner, then swung over a pair of changeups.

Flyers part ways with coach

PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Flyers have fired head coach Craig Berube.

General manager Ron Hextall said this week he had not decided on Berube’s fate following a season in which the Flyers missed the playoffs. The Flyers announced the decision on Friday.

Berube went 75-58-28 (.553) with the Flyers and took them to the playoffs last season. He had one season left on his contract.

He spent six seasons as a Flyers assistant. He has spent 18 seasons with the organization as a player, assistant coach and head coach, doing all three with both the Flyers and Phantoms.

From staff and wire reports