NEW YORK -- Japanese reliever Kyuji Fujikawa was placed on waivers by the Texas Rangers on Friday, which gave him his unconditional release.
The Rangers had designated Fujikawa for assignment Sunday, after the right-hander made only two appearances for them and allowed three runs in 1 2/3 innings. General manager Jon Daniels said Fujikawa had indicated he didn't want to go back to the minor leagues.
The 34-year-old Fujikawa signed with Texas the past winter, after spending the previous two seasons with the Chicago Cubs. His time with the Cubs included a 14-month layoff following Tommy John surgery, and he started this season on the disabled list due to a right groin strain.
Fujikawa had a 4.35 ERA in 11 appearances during his rehab assignment at Double-A Frisco and Triple-A Round Rock.
