Fujikawa headed for Dr. Andrews, Tommy John surgery

CHICAGO -- Cubs pitcher Kyuji Fujikawa is expected to undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow Tuesday.

Fujikawa will be examined by orthopedic specialist Dr. James Andrews on Monday. An MRI exam in May revealed ligament damage to the reliever's elbow.

The right-hander felt some discomfort on his first pitch to the Reds' Joey Votto in the ninth inning May 26, though he finished the at-bat. That was his second inning of work, and Votto was the seventh batter he faced in the game.

He compiled a 12.46 ERA in five games in April before going on the disabled list from April 13-May 10 because of a strained right forearm. When he returned, Fujikawa looked much sharper, and allowed only one earned run over 7 2/3 innings in seven games for a 1.17 ERA.

In 12 games, Fujikawa posted a 5.25 ERA, giving up seven runs over 12 innings. This is his first season in the Major Leagues.