Mariners' Lee to start season on DL

Seattle Mariners ace Cliff Lee has been placed on the 15-day disabled list with an abdominal strain, an expected move given the 2008 AL Cy Young Award winner's health troubles this spring.

Lee is still only throwing on flat ground, which he did Sunday morning on a windy, chilly day at the San Francisco Giants' AT&T Park under close watch of athletic trainer Rick Griffin.

Veteran designated hitter Mike Sweeney made the team, having his contract purchased from Triple-A Tacoma. The 36-year-old Sweeney arrived at the ballpark early Sunday and was called into the manager's office by GM Jack Zduriencik to get the good news.

Teammate Ken Griffey Jr. gave Sweeney a fist bump upon finding out.