PHOENIX, July 27 (UPI) -- Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Randy Johnson is done for the 2007 season because of a herniated disc in his back.
Arizona Manager Bob Melvin said Friday on the team's Web site the 44-year-old left-hander will undergo surgery next Friday, and intends to pitch again in 2008.
Melvin said Johnson hopes to return by spring training.
"How hard he tried to pitch with the injury, I think, is extremely admirable," General Manager Josh Byrnes told the Arizona Republic. "I also think it's pretty smart at this point, because the symptoms -- we just haven't been able to knock them out -- to have the surgery and give him the best chance for 2008."
The former Cy Young Award winner was 4-3 with a 3.81 ERA this season. In 10 starts, Johnson hurled 56 2/3 innings with 13 walks and 72 strikeouts.
He was placed on the 15-day disabled list June 29.
