Japanese reliever Kyuji Fujikawa was placed on waivers Friday by the Texas Rangers to give him his unconditional release.
The Rangers had designated Fujikawa for assignment Sunday after the right-hander made only two appearances for them, allowing three runs in 1⅔ innings.
General manager Jon Daniels said then that Fujikawa had indicated that he didn't want to go back to the minor leagues.
The 34-year-old Fujikawa signed with Texas last winter after spending the last two seasons with the Chicago Cubs.
Fujikawa's time with the Cubs included a 14-month layoff following Tommy John surgery. He joined the Rangers over the offseason and began this year on the disabled list with a right groin strain.
Fujikawa had a 4.35 ERA in 11 appearances on rehab assignment at Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Round Rock.
Fujikawa has 222 career saves between Japan and the majors.