The Associated Press

Anaheim Angels closer Troy Percival was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday because of inflammation in his right elbow.

Percival has allowed eight runs in his last eight appearances, and has blown four saves - matching his total last year - in 17 chances. The roster move was made retroactive to Wednesday.

Manager Mike Scioscia said Francisco Rodriguez will be the "lead dog" at closer, but that other relievers also will be in the mix while Percival is out.

In Chicago, Cubs reliever Joe Borowski was placed on the 15-day disabled list Sunday with a right shoulder strain. Right-hander Jon Leicester was recalled from Triple-A Iowa.

Chicago is unsure of the specifics of Borowski's injury, and he will undergo tests.

ST. LOUIS: Just as Albert Pujols was starting to hit his stride, he got hurt. The St. Louis Cardinals first baseman left Sunday's game against the Houston Astros when he injured his left hamstring running the bases in the sixth inning.

Manager Tony La Russa pretty much ruled the NL batting champion out of the four-game series that starts today at Chicago. Dr. George Paletta, the team physician, said Pujols will have an MRI exam this morning.

"We're looking at a couple of days for sure," Paletta said. "We'll see tomorrow."

NEW YORK: The Yankees activated Jason Giambi from the 15-day disabled list Sunday, then he homered in the eighth inning of the New York Yankees' 2-1 win over the Texas Rangers. Giambi was in the lineup for the first time since May 21, and was the designated hitter in place of the ailing Gary Sheffield.

"It was exciting," Giambi said. "I was champing at the bit to play."

Sheffield, the Yankees' regular right fielder, wasn't available to play because of a stomach flu.

To make room for Giambi, the Yankees sent outfielder Bubba Crosby to Triple-A Columbus.

Besides Sheffield, Derek Jeter is out with a slightly pulled right groin, as is infielder Enrique Wilson. Center fielder Kenny Lofton is on the DL with a strained left hamstring.

PHILADELPHIA: The Phillies activated Placido Polanco from the 15-day disabled list after their 6-4 loss Sunday to Atlanta.

• Philadelphia closer Billy Wagner struck out two and topped 97 mph three times Sunday in his only scheduled rehabilitation appearance for Double-A Reading. Starting and pitching one inning against Bowie, Wagner allowed one hit and threw 13 of 23 pitches for strikes. He could be back as soon as Tuesday.