HOUSTON -- The Houston Astros either will trade shortstop Julio Lugo or place him on waivers in the coming days, general manager Gerry Hunsicker said Sunday.

Hunsicker, speaking on his weekly radio show on KTRH, said the team has "pretty much eliminated'' the possibility of sending Lugo to the minors. The team designated him for assignment on Thursday, giving officials 10 days to trade, waive or demote their one-time starter.

"We'll either trade his contract or put him on waivers at some point,'' Hunsicker said. "If we reach that point and still haven't been able to dispose of his contract, the final alternative would be to release him.''

Lugo was arrested Wednesday night after a game with the Atlanta Braves, charged with misdemeanor assault for allegedly attacking his wife at Minute Maid Park before the game. He spent the night in jail before making bond, then was designated for assignment later Thursday.

Lugo denies striking his wife, and his lawyer has said he believes Lugo has a good case.

The infielder is in his fourth season with the Astros, batting .246 with two RBI in 22 games. Adam Everett has assumed Lugo's role as Houston's starting shortstop.

Lugo is signed to a one-year, $1.58 million contract.