MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Twins reliever Pat Neshek (NEE'-shek) is officially in recovery mode following successful surgery to repair a torn ligament in his elbow.

General manager Bill Smith said the procedure, conducted by team physicians Tuesday morning, went well. The right-hander will wear a soft cast for 10 days and then switch to a hinge brace. After that, he'll begin the rehabilitation process that will keep him out of the entire 2009 season.

Neshek got hurt in a game last May and didn't pitch at all after that. He suffered a setback during a routine throwing session two weeks ago, and an MRI revealed a complete tear of his ulnar collateral ligament.

Tommy John surgery, as it's commonly called, typically takes at least a calendar year to come back from.