As if the rumors surrounding outfielder Shin-Soo Choo were not enough, the Cleveland Indians are reportedly fielding offers for Opening Day starting pitcher — and alleged “ace” — Justin Masterson.
According to CBS Sports, the Boston Red Sox and Texas Rangers were in Minnesota on Saturday to view Masterson’s outing against the Twins. The Indian’s pitcher was throttled for 10 runs (eight earned) on this outing, furthering what has been a very up-and-down season for the 27-year-old, providing a 7-9 record and 4.47 ERA.
The Indians’ asking price, according to Matt Loede of 92.3 The Fan, is very steep– two position prospects in addition to a pitching prospect. The 27-year-old is making $3.8 mil this season, this after making $468,400 one year ago. The Indians have reportedly spoken about a long-term deasl with the player, but so far have not made any progress.
As has been the case with every other Indians-related trade rumor, the front office is placing a high priority on player control, meaning that anyone received in a deal would be required to have multiple, low-cost years of service still left on their current contract.
[Related: A Lost Weekend In Minnesota Sends Tribe Spinning Back To Reality]
