Royals put Mahay on disabled list, Gordon likely next

The disabled list is growing crowded with Royals. Reliever Ron Mahay joined the ranks before Friday’s game against the Detroit Tigers, and it appears third baseman Alex Gordon will be next.

Mahay was placed on the 15-day list to clear space for the club to recall pitcher Kyle Davies from Class AAA Omaha. Davies will start Saturday’s game against the Tigers at Kauffman Stadium.

Gordon appears certain to be shut down before Saturday’s game after an examination revealed a torn quadriceps muscle in his right leg. He left Thursday’s game in Cleveland after experiencing tightness in his quadriceps while making a charging pick-up and throw on a grounder to third base.

Mahay made just one brief appearance since Aug. 6 because of plantar fascia, which causes pain to the heel and bottom of his left foot. His time on the disabled list will be backdated to start Aug. 16.

The Royals placed pitcher Luke Hochevar and outfielder Mitch Maier on the disabled list earlier in the week. Hochevar has a deep bruise and strained muscles in his rib cage, while Maier suffered multiple facial fractures when hit by a pitch.

To reach Bob Dutton, Royals reporter for The Star, call 816-234-4352 or send e-mail to bdutton@kcstar.com.