ATLANTA — Kenshin Kawakami is back with the Atlanta Braves and is on standby as the team awaits a health update from Derek Lowe.

The Braves recalled Kawakami from Triple-A Gwinnett on Monday. The right-hander could be insurance for Lowe, who has lost three straight decisions.

Lowe gave up six hits and five runs in three innings against Florida on Sunday and after the game and again on Monday deflected questions about possible discomfort in his arm or hand.

Lowe said Monday he would update his status on Tuesday.

Braves general manager Frank Wren said he doesn't expect bad news from Lowe.

"I don't think there's going to be anything but that's why we sent Kenshin down there to get stretched out," Wren said. "If we needed another starter he'd be the first guy in line to make a start for us."

Lowe shook his right hand several times on the mound on Sunday but said after the game there was nothing wrong. He said Monday he'll throw his regular side session on Tuesday.

"Obviously when guys make their starts you always look to their side day," Wren said. "If a guy's going to have difficulty, that's usually when it shows up. But I don't expect there to be any problem."

Lowe is 11-12 with a 4.53 ERA.

Kawakami was 1-9 with a 4.75 ERA in 16 games, including 15 starts, with Atlanta. He lost his job as the Braves' No. 5 starter before he was sent to Gwinnett on Aug. 7.

The Braves optioned right-hander Cristhian Martinez to Gwinnett on Monday. Martinez had a 3.05 ERA in 13 games.
Meanwhile, right-hander Peter Moylan said Monday he had a cortisone shot to relieve discomfort in his inflamed right shoulder on Friday. Moylan, who ranks fourth in the National League with 66 appearances, said his shoulder felt "awesome" on Monday.

Also, first baseman Derek Lowe was in the starting lineup against the New York Mets. He didn't play Sunday after leaving Saturday night's game with a strained side muscle.