Griffey sidelined by colon problem

Ken Griffey Jr. was expected back in the Cincinnati Reds' lineup tonight after recovering from diverticulitis.

The right fielder was out of the starting lineup for the last four games of a homestand last week. He pinch-hit in the ninth inning of a 9-3 loss to Philadelphia on Sunday.

Griffey confirmed that he was diagnosed about six months ago with diverticulitis, or inflammation of the colon.

"It's just a condition that I have," Griffey said. "I've got to watch everything that I eat. There are certain foods that I have to stay away from. It's something that a lot of people have, and it's uncomfortable."

Prior to have exploratory surgery; Miller on DL: Mark Prior's right shoulder still hurts, and the oft-injured Chicago Cubs pitcher will have surgery today.

Prior will have an exploratory arthroscopic procedure in Birmingham, Ala., Cubs general manager Jim Hendry said. Dr. James Andrews has been given permission for a more extensive operation if he determines it is necessary.

The Cubs also put pitcher Wade Miller on the 15-day disabled list with middle back spasms and recalled reliever Rocky Cherry.

Hughes to make major league debut for Yankees on Thursday: A day after getting swept by the Boston Red Sox, the New York Yankees said they plan on having Phil Hughes, their top pitching prospect, start Thursday against Toronto.

Seattle places Hernandez on 15-day DL: The Seattle Mariners placed ace right-hander Felix Hernandez on the 15-day disabled list, shelving their hard-throwing 21-year-old until at least May 4. Hernandez has a muscle strain inside his right elbow and forearm.

Rangers put Gagne on DL: The Texas Rangers put closer Eric Gagne on the 15-day disabled list, one day after the oft-injured right-hander left the game in the middle of just his second save situation for his new team. He was diagnosed with a hip injury.

A's place Bradley, Harden on disabled list: The Oakland Athletics placed ace right-hander Rich Harden on the 15-day disabled list with a strained right shoulder and also put center fielder Milton Bradley on the DL with a strained left hamstring.

Indians place Marte on DL, recall Choo: The Indians placed third baseman Andy Marte on the 15-day disabled list with a strained left hamstring and recalled outfielder Shin-Soo Choo from Triple-A Buffalo.