BOSTON -- Left-hander Frank Viola needs surgery to repair muscles and a partially torn ligament on the inside of his pitching elbow, Boston Red Sox team physician/owner Arthur Pappas said yesterday.

The Red Sox placed Viola, 34, on the 60-day disabled list, but he will be out at least until September and probably is finished for the season. "September would be optimistic," Pappas said. "Next year, there is, in reality, an opportunity for him to come back and pitch."

Viola, 175-146 in his career, including 1-1 this season, said he has no plans to retire but conceded the injury could be career-threatening. "If I'm meant to pitch again, I'll pitch again," he said.