Righty Moylan diagnosed with tear in elbow

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- Astros relief pitcher Peter Moylan has been diagnosed with a high-grade tear of the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow, and he is hoping to meet next week with renowned orthopedic surgeon Dr. James Andrews for a second opinion.

Moylan, a non-roster invitee to camp who was having a strong spring in his battle to win a spot in the bullpen, said he injured his elbow while throwing in a game on Saturday against the Tigers in Lakeland, Fla.

"I was having control issues and it kind of felt weird in my elbow, but not weird enough I was willing to come off the field," he said. "I kept pitching and I got through the inning. The nastiest three pitches I threw were the three I struck out [Alex] Avila with. I went to the field the next day and tried to play catch and couldn't do it."

Moylan had an MRI earlier in the week and found out the results on Friday morning after he returned from Atlanta, where he spent a couple of days dealing with a family matter.

Moylan had pitched in five games, allowing two runs and four hits this spring. An eight-year veteran who saw some success with the Braves from 2006-12, Moylan spent last season split between the Minor Leagues and the Dodgers, appearing in 14 games.