Menez is headed to Japan to play for the Nippon-Ham Fighters. The 27-year-old left-hander holds a 3.95 ERA in 24 appearances -- four starts -- over parts of four major league seasons.

Menez cleared waivers after being designated for assignment and will remain in the organization as pitching depth.

Menez has been removed from the Cubs' 40-man roster to make room for top pitching prospect Caleb Kilian to ascend to the majors. The 27-year-old left-hander tossed a scoreless frame in his lone big-league appearance this season for the Cubs.

Menez made only one appearance during his week-long stay in the Cubs' bullpen.