Fukuoka Softbank Hawks center fielder Yuki Yanagita will be out for two to three months after right elbow surgery, the Japan Series champions announced Friday.
Yanagita had loose material in his right elbow removed but will be ready for the start of the new season, according to the Pacific League club.
This season, Yanagita batted .363 with 34 home runs and 32 stolen bases.
He won his second straight Golden Glove award as well as his second straight Japan Series ring.
The 27-year-old, who was hit by a pitch late in September, was playing through pain in his left shin during the postseason.