Cubs notes: Contreras makes debut; Schwarber on track

Willson Contreras was sleeping when his phone rang with the news that he had been called up to the major leagues.

So on Friday morning, as the Cubs’ top catching prospect settled into a locker sandwiched between fellow rookie Albert Almora Jr. and veteran catcher Miguel Montero, Contreras took a moment to allow everything to sink in.

Later, Contreras received a standing ovation when he entered the Cubs’ 6-0 win over the Pirates in the ninth inning.

“That’s the best feeling I have ever [felt],” Contreras said. “I can’t describe it. I can’t explain it. I have no words.”

Contreras was surprised when he learned he was going into the game. But after putting on his gear, the reality of the moment hit him.

“I said, ‘OK, you’re here. Do what you’re here to do,’ ” Contreras said.

How long he’ll stay with the Cubs remains a question. Team president Theo Epstein said the Cubs will carry three catchers, with David Ross and Montero seeing the majority of the time. Tim Federowicz was designated for assignment.

At Class AAA Iowa, Contreras hit .350 with 16 doubles, three triples, nine home runs and 43 RBI in 54 games. He had a .439 on-base percentage and .591 slugging percentage.

“We think it’s great timing to get Willson some experience and get him acclimated to the big-league level at a time when he doesn’t have to step in and carry the catching load,” Epstein said. “He’s going to get some playing time, and we’ll see where it goes from there. He’s earned his way up here.”

Schwarber on track

Epstein said Kyle Schwarber’s rehabilita-tion remains on schedule. Schwarber, who tore the -anterior cruciate and lateral collateral ligaments in his left knee in the third game of the season, hit all of his range-of-motion checkpoints during a recent checkup.

Schwarber isn’t using crutches for the most part and recently was fitted for a new knee brace. Despite the progress, Epstein ruled out a return for a playoff run and said Schwarber is preparing for spring training.

Schwarber sat in the Cubs’ war room during the MLB draft last week.

“He’s always looking for ways to contribute to the organization,” Epstein said.

Trade talk

Epstein said it’s too early to think about the trade deadline. But he suggested the Cubs might be buyers if the right situation presents itself, especially when it comes to improving the bullpen.

Epstein said he wouldn’t make a reactionary move in regard to the bullpen’s struggles but said the Cubs would like to add an impact reliever.

“We feel like there’s some things that we could do down the line without completely mortgaging the future that could bolster the big-league level,” Epstein said.

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