The MLB trade deadline is off and running. According to multiple reports, the Cleveland Indians have traded starting pitcher Justin Masterson to the St. Louis Cardinals for prospect James Ramsey. Masterson, who is currently on the DL and set to return on Friday, is in the midst of a disappointing season. He’s 4-6 with a 5.51 ERA in 19 starts this year.
FULL TRADE:
SP Justin Masterson –> #STLCards
OF James Ramsey–> #Indians
(via @Ken_Rosenthal & @pgammo)
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) July 30, 2014
Adding the former All-Star to the mix could be huge for St. Louis down the stretch. Despite his struggles this season, Masterson has been a solid pitcher for the Indians since they acquired him from the Boston Red Sox in the Victor Martinez deal back in 2009. Entering 2014, Masterson was coming off three consecutive double-digit wins seasons.
With Michael Wacha currently on the DL and Jaime Garcia out for the season, St. Louis needed to add another arm to the rotation.
In acquiring Masterson, the Cardinals were able to get away with sending a prospect that isn’t among the best in their farm system. According to John Sickels of MinorLeagueBall.com, James Ramsey ranked 11th among Cardinals prospects heading into the season. He is hitting .300 with 13 homers and 36 RBI’s for Double-A Springfield this season.
Photo: Cleveland.com