Cespedes expected back at Texas

HOUSTON -- Yoenis Cespedes was missing from Oakland's lineup for a third straight game on Sunday, but the A's are hoping to have their left fielder back for a pivotal three-game set in Texas this week.

Cespedes, who suffered a mild left hamstring strain at Minute Maid Park on Thursday, wasn't even considered a viable option off the bench in Sunday's series finale in Houston.

"Initially I thought Texas was more realistic for him," said A's manager Bob Melvin, "and I'm probably still there with that."

Brandon Moss again got the start in left field with Cespedes out of the mix Sunday, batting in his usual cleanup spot. Alberto Callaspo hit in the fifth spot, where Cespedes has been hitting on most days this year.

In Cespedes' three seasons with the A's, the club is 179-103 with him in the starting lineup and 26-40 when he doesn't start.