BASEBALL / DAILY REPORT : AROUND THE MAJORS : Indians Acquire Hill for 3 Minor Leaguers

The Cleveland Indians, looking to bolster their pitching staff for the pennant stretch, acquired Ken Hill from St. Louis on Thursday for three minor leaguers.

The Indians, leading the AL Central by 15 1/2 games and holding the best record in baseball, are intent on plugging any remaining weaknesses in the last two months of the season.

“We made this trade based on the fact that we’re trying to win this thing,” General Manager John Hart said of Hill, who will start tonight at Seattle. “I think this sends a very clear message that we’re serious about what we’re doing.”

Hill, a free agent after this season, was 6-7 with a 5.06 earned-run average after being acquired from the Montreal Expos in April. Although Hill has not pitched well, Hart said the Indians remain impressed with his ability.

Cleveland gave up triple-A third baseman David Bell--son of Indian infield coach Buddy Bell--along with with Class-A right-hander Rick Heiserman and rookie-league catcher Pepe McNeal.

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Kevin Appier, who pitched two hitless innings in the All-Star game and was 11-2 at one point this season for Kansas City, went on the 15-day disabled list because of a sore right shoulder.

Appier (11-7), has lost his last five decisions. He was bombed by the New York Yankees and gave up three home runs in an 8-1 loss Tuesday.

Trainer Nick Swartz said an examination revealed inflammation in the rotator cuff “which we pretty much suspected is causing the fatigue.”

Outfielder Joe Vitiello was called up from triple-A Omaha to fill Appier’s roster spot.

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Philadelphia Phillie outfielder Lenny Dykstra was put on the 15-day disabled list because of problems with his right knee, the team said.

Dykstra will visit Dr. Lewis Yocum on Monday or Tuesday in California for a thorough examination.

Dykstra said he doesn’t have any trouble running in a straight line, “but I have trouble stopping, starting and turning.”

Dykstra is batting .264 in 62 games. He will be replaced on the roster by Tom Marsh, recalled from Scranton Wilkes-Barre of the International League.