Chicago Cubs batter Kosuke Fukudome hits a RBI double in the fourth inning of their MLB National League baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals in St. Louis, Missouri
Chicago Cubs batter Kosuke Fukudome hits a RBI double in the fourth inning of their MLB National League baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals in St. Louis, Missouri, August 15, 2010. Reuters

The Cleveland Indians, needing help in their outfield, have acquired Kosuke Fukudome from the Chicago Cubs as part of a three-player deal, the teams said.

The Indians, who also will receive unspecified cash in the trade, sent minor leaguers Abner Abreu, an outfielder, and Carlton Smith, a pitcher, to the Cubs, Cleveland said in a statement.

Japan's Fukudome, 34, hit .273 in 87 games with the Cubs this season, primarily as their leadoff batter.

He is in the final year of a four-year $48 million contract, and the Cubs are expected to pay most of the estimated $4.5 million remaining for this season.

Cleveland is short on outfielders with Grady Sizemore and Choo Shin-soo on the disabled list.

The Indians were no-hit by the Los Angeles Angels' Ervin Santana Wednesday.

Los Angeles Japan Major league baseball Los Angeles