Jason Marquis Signs with San Diego Padres

Jason Marquis has signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports.  Marquis, who was released by the Minnesota Twins a little over a week ago, is expected to begin his time with the Padres pitching for their Double-A affiliate.

This offseason, the Twins signed Marquis to a one-year deal, as Minnesota was hoping the 33-year-old could become an innings eater for the club.  Unfortunately for the Twins and Marquis, the right-hander struggled in a big way.

Over his seven starts spanning only 34 innings, Marquis posted an ERA and WHIP of 8.47 and 1.941.  The veteran’s strikeout numbers (3.2 K/9) were down from his career norms (5.2 K/9), and Marquis allowed 52 hits over his 34 innings of work including nine home runs.

Because Marquis had been released, the Padres won’t have to assume any of his initial $3 million 2012 salary.  Instead, San Diego will be paying Marquis a pro-rated portion of the veteran minimum.

Marquis returns to the National League where he had been a viable option for a team’s starting rotation as recently as last season.  Over his 20 starts with the Washington Nationals Marquis maintained an ERA and WHIP of 3.95 and 1.417.

For more on the Padres be sure to check out Chicken Friars.