Nagging knee sends Masterson to DL

CLEVELAND -- After failing to go at least four innings in four of his past five starts, the Indians have placed Justin Masterson on the 15-day disabled list due to nagging problems with his right knee.

Masterson said a couple weeks ago after a start was pushed back a couple days that he has had problems with the knee since his second start of the year.

During his past five starts, Masterson has gone 0-2 with a 9.50 ERA. In those 19 innings, he has allowed 19 runs and 27 hits with 17 walks, three hit batters and 19 strikeouts.

In a 5-3 loss to the Yankees on Monday, Masterson matched his shortest start of the season by going two innings and allowing five runs on six hits with three walks, a hit batter and a strikeout. Of the 54 pitches thrown by Masterson, only 24 were strikes.

Masterson's next turn in the rotation would have been Saturday against the White Sox. It is likely that Zach McAllister will be called up. Until then and to add depth to the bullpen, Nick Hagadone has been recalled.

The Tribe has also called up catcher Roberto Perez and optioned outfielder Tyler Holt to Columbus.