Shoulder Problem for the Cubs’ Prior

The Chicago Cubs put Mark Prior on the 15-day disabled list Saturday because of shoulder tendinitis, a move that could mean an end to the right-hander’s season.

Prior has been on the disabled list eight times in his four-year career in the majors, including three this season. The latest trip comes after he gave up five earned runs in three innings Thursday in an 8-6 loss to Milwaukee.

Prior didn’t feel anything wrong with the shoulder, but a loss in velocity in the third inning led the team to send him back to Chicago for an MRI exam on Friday, which showed rotator cuff tendinitis.

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Houston outfielder Preston Wilson was designated for assignment, a roster move the Astros made so they could promote pitcher Jason Hirsh from triple-A Round Rock. The team has 10 days to release Wilson, trade him or send him to the minors.