Astros add Clemens to bolster bullpen

ARLINGTON -- The Astros bolstered their bullpen Saturday by adding right-hander Paul Clemens, who was 1-0 with a 1.13 ERA in two games at Triple-A Oklahoma City. He took the roster spot of starting pitcher Scott Feldman, who was placed on the bereavement list following the death of his father on Wednesday.

Clemens has been working on commanding his curveball and studying video with pitching coach Brent Strom from two years ago, when Clemens pitched well in his Major League debut.

"As long as I command myself and execute my pitches, I'll be fine," he said. "Whatever [role] they put, they're going to put me. It's about winning ballgames."

The Astros plan to use Clemens in long relief. Brad Peacock worked in long relief Friday by throwing 2 2/3 innings, which made him unavailable Saturday.

"I feel like I've got some pretty live stuff, and when I stay within myself and command my stuff, I feel like I can compete with anybody," Clemens said.

Feldman, who can be on the bereavement list for up to seven days, pitched Friday and would be on turn to start again Thursday against the Royals. Manager Bo Porter said it was too early to determine whether Feldman would return in time to make his next start.

"We're not with the family and don't know what's going on," he said. "We'll let him get there and communicate back to us how things are going."