Jason Marquis back with Twins

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FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Right-hander Jason Marquis has returned to the Minnesota Twins after a two-week leave to tend to his seriously injured young daughter.

Marquis threw a simulated game for the Twins on Tuesday, still wearing a hospital wristband. His 7-year-old daughter, Reese, was hurt in a bicycle accident in New York and under sedation for nine days with significant internal bleeding. Marquis said she began to make enough improvement that he felt comfortable leaving her and coming back to the team.

Marquis said his daughter is likely to fully recover from her injuries.

"I wasn't coming home until she was awake, talking, a little smile. She's a scared little 7-year-old who's been through a lot," said Marquis, who tried to work out daily in between visits. "We have a great support team at home. My wife's been amazing through this whole thing."

The 13-year veteran, who signed as a free agent with the Twins, his first American League team, was slated to be the fifth starter. But he'll stay behind for at least the first week while he gets back up to speed. The Twins were still sorting out how to handle his roster spot.

After four straight games to start the regular season at Baltimore on Friday, Minnesota has an off day, so only four starters will be necessary for the first week. But rookie Liam Hendriks has already been tabbed to fill in for Scott Baker, who is recovering from elbow tendinitis.

Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press

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