Veteran Marquis not yet ready to call it a career

MILWAUKEE -- On Monday, Padres manager Bud Black said right-hander Jason Marquis will miss the rest of the season with a significant tear to the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow.

On Tuesday, Black had a chance to talk with Marquis, who confirmed he had a complete tear, but added that he will have reconstructive elbow surgery and that he intends to pitch again.

"I think, as of right now, he plans on pitching again," Black said of the 34-year-old Marquis, who has been in the big leagues since 2000. "I think he wants to come back and compete."

Marquis allowed six runs on eight hits and three walks in 5 1/3 innings in a loss to the Cardinals on Friday. He was hit hard and his velocity was down slightly from where it typically is. Marquis informed Black and the training staff afterwards of pain in his elbow.

Marquis was 9-5 with a 4.05 ERA in 20 starts this season. He was 9-2 with a 3.63 ERA in his first 14 starts, and the team was 10-4 in those games. But he never got that elusive 10th victory, going 0-3 with a 5.13 ERA in his last six starts.

Black wasn't entirely sure if Marquis would have the surgery, given his age and the 1,921 innings he's logged in the Majors with eight teams.

"But if that burning desire is there to compete and play … then do it," Black said.

The manager added there's a chance Marquis could have surgery as soon as next week. Black was unclear where the surgery would take place, but did mention Marquis' relationship with Reds team doctor Timothy Kremchek. It was Kremchek who diagnosed the torn UCL.