SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — New York Mets right-hander Pedro Martinez was headed back to the Dominican Republic following the death of his ailing father.

Martinez's father, Pablo Jaime, died early today at age 79 after battling a form of brain cancer for more than a year. Martinez, had gone home just before the All Star break to be with his father.

Jaime was also the father of former major league pitcher Ramon Martinez.

Pedro Martinez, who is returning to help with funeral arrangements, was scheduled to pitch Friday. He hasn't pitched since leaving his July 12 start with a sore shoulder and tightness in his groin.