Veteran reliever Jason Isringhausen may be done for the season due to upcoming Tommy John surgery - his second elbow surgery in 10 months - but his agent says he plans to come back and pitch in the big leagues again.

"This is not a retirement sendoff," agent Dan Horwits told the Times in a phone interview.

An MRI Monday revealed Isringhausen, 36, has suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Horwits said Isringhausen will undergo surgery next Tuesday, and is hoping that after a 10-12 month rehab, he'll be able to pitch somewhere by the middle of next season.

"Knowing Jason, in every surgery he's ever had, he's come back early, so I wouldn't put it past him," Horwits said. "You never know."

Isringhausen immediately knew something was wrong when he threw a pitch in the ninth inning Saturday, and pulled himself out of the game. Horwits said Isringhausen spent some time talking with his family and doctor in St. Louis before making the decision to return. Isringhausen had battled his way back from elbow surgery in September, which ended his 2008 season with the Cardinals.

"He's actually ok, he was a little bit in shock when it happened and obviously disappointed because he had come back so far to where he was really feeling like he was turning a corner and ready to do it like he had before," Horwits said. "The initial shock was there and it's worn off. "

Isringhausen, who is on the 60-day disabled list, hasn't been available for comment since suffering the injury. Horwits said Isringhausen has "loved"" his time with the Rays and it "felt like home," so when and if the two-time All Star is ready to pitch again, "Andrew (Friedman) will be the first person I call."

- JOE SMITH

joesmith@sptimes.com