Crisp's ailing neck forces early exit vs. Astros

HOUSTON -- A's left fielder Coco Crisp exited Tuesday's 6-4 loss to the Astros after just three innings because of neck tightness.

Crisp is considered day to day, but he missed a good chunk of last season while dealing with the same issue, which is cause for concern. He aggravated it Tuesday when trying for Colby Rasmus' second-inning leadoff double.

"Similar to last year," said manager Bob Melvin, "but to what degree, we're not sure."

Crisp, 35, began the season on the disabled list after undergoing right elbow surgery and is just 2-for-45 since his May 6 return.

Sam Fuld shifted from center to left in place of Crisp on Tuesday, and Billy Burns entered the game in the bottom of the fourth to assume center-field duties, finishing 2-for-3.