Kansas City placed Mike Sweeney on the disabled list yesterday. Sweeney has suffered intermittent back pain throughout the season, taking a few games off here and there to allow him to keep playing. However, the pain recently increased to a point where it was substantially impacting his ability to contribute to the team. When an MRI revealed a bulging disc on Monday, the Royals booked his trip to the DL. Sweeney's indicated he intends to try to return this season, but he easily could be out for the remainder of the season. With Kansas City out of the playoff race, there's little reason for the club to push the 31-year-old. Despite the recurring nature of his back problems, surgery still is considered unlikely.