Kansas City, Mo. ? The reeling Kansas City Royals placed pitcher Kevin Appier on the disabled list because of a sore elbow, one of six roster moves Saturday.

The Royals, 2-8 in their last 10 games, activated closer Mike MacDougal — recovered from a stomach virus — from the disabled list, and promoted right-handed reliever Justin Huisman and outfielder David DeJesus from Omaha of the Pacific Coast League.

The Royals also designated rookie outfielder Rich Thompson — a Rule 5 draft pick in December from Pittsburgh — for assignment, and optioned reliever D.J. Carrasco to Omaha.

Appier, who had elbow surgery in September to repair a flexor tendon tear, walked off the mound after 15 pitches and facing only four Minnesota batters Friday night, complaining of pain in his elbow. Appier underwent an MRI Saturday.

“Right now there’s no definite diagnosis on the MRI,” Royals trainer Nick Swartz said. “Basically, we’re looking at, is it the tendon or scar tissue? Right now, he’s got some swelling and soreness in that area.”

Swartz said team physician Dr. Steve Joyce and the radiologist would compare the MRI before the surgery and the one Saturday.

“No scenario,” Swartz said on when Appier would return.

The Royals wasted no time in inserting DeJesus, who hit .351 with Omaha, into the lineup, starting him in left field.

“Everybody believes DeJesus can be an impact player in the big leagues,” Royals manager Tony Pena said. “He’s here to play at least five days a week.”

Pena said DeJesus’ presence would take at-bats away from Aaron Guiel.