The St. Louis Cardinals intend to place struggling right-hander Andy Benes on the disabled list, and the pitcher is contemplating retirement.

Benes has lasted a total of 10 innings in three starts this season and has a 10.80 ERA. He lasted three innings in a 14-5 loss at Arizona on Monday, giving up 10 runs -- three earned -- and was seen saying goodbyes to teammates and former teammates with the Diamondbacks before Wednesday's game in Arizona.

Team spokesman Brian Bartow said Benes would not accompany the team to its next stop in Milwaukee. He said Benes' wife was flying from St. Louis to spend a few days with her husband in the Phoenix area.

"I think he's leaning in the direction of calling it a career," Bartow said.

-- AP