The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission criminally charged former Daytona Beach Cubs pitcher Jae-kuk Ryu Thursday for injuring an osprey earlier this week at Jackie Robinson Stadium in Daytona Beach.

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Witnesses told investigators that Ryu threw several balls at the osprey while it was perched above the field Monday during warm-up for the evening game.

One of the balls hit the osprey in the head, and after a few seconds the bird fell to the ground, Local 6 News reported.

Other players on the field rushed to assist the injured osprey, which was eventually taken to the Animal Clinic of Edgewater, where it is being treated for head and eye injuries.

The bird is in danger of losing its eye because of the injury.

Ospreys are recognized by the state as a species of special concern, meaning their habitats are vulnerable.

Ryu is charged with a second degree misdemeanor under Florida Administrative Code which carries a maximum penalty of a $500 fine and 60 days in jail.

Ryu will appear in Volusia County Court in Daytona on a date to be set later.

Daytona general manager Buck Rogers said the team, as an act of contrition, will hold a fundraiser for the Animal Clinic of Edgewater on Friday night.

The Chicago Cubs will provide autographed balls for auction, and the Daytona Cubs will donate $1 for every fan in attendance