Right-hander Brian Moehler, who exited Monday's start after 2 1/3 innings because of problems with his right knee, has been diagnosed with a slight sprain of the medial collateral ligament.
General manager Ed Wade said Tuesday it was too early to decide whether the Astros will need to place Moehler on the 15-day disabled list. Wade said the pitcher is "day-to-day." "Hopefully (he'll miss) just a start," Wade said.
If it's more than a start, right-handers Alberto Arias, Jose Capellan and Felipe Paulino are the top candidates for promotion from Class AAA Round Rock. Jeff Fulchino, who was called up when RHP Doug Brocail was placed on the DL Sunday, also is an option as a potential spot starter.
"We've talked about the fact that we sent Arias and (Jeff) Fulchino to get stretched out to start," Wade said. "And we also have Capellan and Felipe Paulino. There's some alternatives."
One start after giving up seven runs over 1 2/3 innings against the Chicago Cubs, Moehler lasted only 2 1/3 innings while giving up five runs and seven hits in a loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Moehler, a pleasant surprise last year while working his way from a non-roster invitee who earned the long reliever's spot on opening day to an eventual starter, is 0-2 with a 27.00 ERA this season.
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