Cubs Decline Club Option On P Fujikawa

(CBS) The Cubs have declined their 2015 club option for right-hander Kyuji Fujikawa, they announced Thursday afternoon. Fujikawa will become a free agent.

Right-hander Carlos Villanueva also parted ways with the Cubs by filing for free agency.

The 34-year-old Fujikawa was 0-0 with a 4.85 ERA in 15 appearances out of the bullpen this past season for the Cubs. He underwent Tommy John surgery after 12 appearances in 2013 and missed large chunks of each of the past two seasons.

The 30-year-old Villanueva was 5-7 with a 4.64 ERA.

Chicago's 40-man roster now stands at 35 players, giving them some flexibility with the free agency period upon us. Players and teams can talk already, and free agents can be signed starting next Tuesday.

On Wednesday, the Cubs outrighted pitcher James McDonald, outfielder Ryan Kalish and infielders Josh Vitters and Chris Valaika to Triple-A Iowa. McDonald elected for free agency over the demotion.