Chili Davis on Disabled List

Chili Davis, who got a three-year contract to be the New York Yankees’ designated hitter, was put on the 15-day disabled list Tuesday because of tendinitis in his lower right leg.

Davis, 38, said his right leg felt numb after last week’s opener against the Angels, and the three-time All-Star was sent back to New York on Monday to be reexamined. The Yankees, off to a 1-4 start, will use Tim Raines and Darryl Strawberry at designated hitter.

Davis was disabled retroactive to April 3. To take his roster spot, the Yankees recalled outfielder Shane Spencer from triple-A Columbus.

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Phillie right-hander Mark Portugal, who injured his right knee in his first start of the season Thursday, underwent arthroscopic surgery and is expected to be out at least four weeks.

Injuries have hampered Portugal, 35, throughout his career. This is his 10th appearance on the disabled list.

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Prospective bidders for the Kansas City Royals will be asked to submit non-binding preliminary proposals by the end of this month, team President Mike Herman said.

The board, along with investment banker J.P. Morgan, will use the non-binding bids to select final bidders for the team, which have been owned by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation and Affiliated Trusts since the death of founder Ewing Kauffman.

Three groups have expressed interest, led by Kansas City Chief owner Lamar Hunt, New York lawyer Miles Prentice and former Royal star George Brett.

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Atlanta Brave infielder Keith Lockhart has a partial tear in his left rotator cuff and might have to go on the disabled list.

Lockhart started three of the Braves’ first five games at second base.