According to multiple media reports, the Red Sox have agreed to a deal with free agent pitcher Justin Masterson. Buster Olney was the first to report the deal, which is for one-year.
The signing marks a homecoming for Masterson, who began his career in Boston before being dealt to Cleveland in the Victor Martinez trade. Masterson became an All-Star in 2013 while in Cleveland, before being dealt to the Cardinals in a deadline-deal this past season.
The 2014 season was a difficult one for Masterson, as he battled knee injuries that severely affected his performance. He finished at 7-9 with a 5.88 ERA in 25 starts between Cleveland and St. Louis and was left off the Cardinals’ postseason roster.
The Red Sox clearly view him as a bounce-back candidate. Masterson threw over 190 innings from 2011-2013 and appears to fit the current philosophy of signing middle of the rotation guys who can eat innings. While not guaranteed a rotation spot, at worst he’ll be insurance in case of a likely Clay Buchholz injury.
The Sox have been extremely active at the Winter Meetings and are likely still in the market for an ace. We’d be surprised if there aren’t more moves in the coming days or weeks.