Atlanta, GA (Best E Casino) - Atlanta Braves pitcher Tim Hudson has decided to undergo Tommy John elbow ligament replacement surgery.

An MRI exam performed on Hudson Monday indicated that the righty would need to undergo the surgical procedure. He is projected to miss about a year and could be expected to rejoin the rotation in August of next season.

Hudson, 33, has gone 11-7 with a 3.17 earned run average this year and is set to make $13 million in 2009, the final year of his contract. The contract includes a $12 million option with a $1 million buyout for 2010.

The 10-year veteran becomes one of the many Braves pitchers to join the disabled list this season. John Smoltz underwent season-ending shoulder surgery in June, and Peter Moylan, Tom Glavine and Manny Acosta are all currently on the disabled list with various ailments.