The Chicago Cubs announced on Wednesday that reliever Kyuji Fujikawa will require Tommy John surgery. Fujikawa was signed to a two-year deal worth $9.5 million last winter.
It was hoped that Fujikawa had a forearm strain.
Fujikawa suffered the injury while pitching in Sunday’s win over Cincinnati. The pitcher said he heard a popping sound and was examined by a team physician on Monday.
The Cubs claimed Baltimore reliever Alex Burnett to replace Fujikawa in the bullpen.
On the year Fujikawa appeared in 12 games with a 5.25 ERA and a 1.08 WHIP. He also saved two games.