" Javier Vazquez was placed on the bereavement list because of a death in his wife's family, but is expected to make his next scheduled start on Sunday against the Nationals.

Vazquez returned home to Puerto Rico after Monday's loss against the Phillies. Manager Edwin Rodriguez said Vazquez will rejoin the team in Washington on Friday.

"Before the game [Monday], he told me there was something going on," Rodriguez said. "He sounded concerned with what was happening in Puerto Rico."

The struggling veteran had another subpar outing, knocked out in the fifth inning while allowing six runs on nine hits. He also failed to back up at home on Emilio Bonifacio's throw to the plate. The ball sailed over the head of catcher John Buck, allowing a runner to score.

Afterward, Vazquez said he was "embarrassed" by his performance so far but made no mention of any personal issues.

The Marlins are contemplating whether or not to call up a roster replacement for Vazquez. But, even if they do, it would be for Wednesday's game only.

What appeared to be a serious injury to reliever Edward Mujica might not be so bad after all.

Mujica, who was carted off the field on Monday with what was diagnosed initially as a left knee strain, said he felt "a little better" Tuesday and thinks he will be ready to pitch again by Friday.

Mujica, who sustained a similar injury on Opening Day, sustained the injury when he came off the mound to cover first base in Monday's seventh inning. He ended up hopping on one leg before falling to the ground.

He is now walking without a noticeable limp."