Chicago Cubs reliever Kyuji Fujikawa saw his first big league season end prematurely on Wednesday, when the team announced he will have Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.
"This is the first major injury of my career," said the 32-year-old, who signed as a free agent after a stellar career with the Central League's Hanshin Tigers.
"I am taking a positive stance and intend to come back even stronger."
In 12 games, Fujikawa had a 1-1 record with two saves and a 5.25 ERA. He saved 220 games for the Tigers.