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Indians Rumors: Cleveland May Deal Masterson; Red Sox, Rangers Interested

ANAHEIM, CA - MAY 06:  Justin Masterson #63 of the Cleveland Indians pitches against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the first inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 6, 2011 in Anaheim, California.  (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - MAY 06: Justin Masterson #63 of the Cleveland Indians pitches against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim in the first inning at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 6, 2011 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Jeff Gross/Getty Images)
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On the fence for the last week about what to do at the trade deadline, the Cleveland Indians have apparently decided to sell. Already fielding calls for outfielder Shin-Soo Choo and closer Chris Perez, the Tribe have now made it known they are open to moving right-hander Justin Masterson, sources have told Danny Knobler of CBS Sports.

The fading Indians have told teams that they may trade opening day starter Justin Masterson, sources say. Both the Red Sox and Rangers sent scouts to watch Masterson Saturday night in Minnesota.

Masterson did not perform well for the scouts, giving up a career-high 10 runs (eight earned) in 5 2/3 innings of work. After a breakout 2011, the 27-year-old right-hander has not been able to replicate that success this season and now owns a 4.47 ERA through 22 starts.

Despite his recent struggles, Masterson's tendency to keep the ball on the ground----a career GB rate of 56.2%----makes him an attractive trade piece. Under team control through the 2014 season, Masterson is making $3.83 million this year.

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Who would be a better fit for Masterson: Red Sox or Rangers?

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