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Free agent right-hander Justin Masterson appears to be drawing a significant amount of interest early on in the free agency process. According to ESPN's Jerry Crasnick, the 29-year-old has been checked in on by the Twins, Braves, Royals, Cubs, Giants, and Red Sox, while the Cleveland Plain Dealer's Paul Hoynes reports that Masterson's former club, the Indians, is also in the mix for his services.
Masterson could be an interesting addition for any number of teams, as he comes with quite a bit of upside on a one or two-year deal. He is a strong bounceback candidate after struggling through a dismal 2014 season in which he posted a 5.88 ERA and 4.50 FIP in 128.2 innings. He dealt with a nagging knee injury and was traded to the St. Louis Cardinals mid-season. It is reasonable to foresee Masterson signing a one-year contract to reestablish his value and return to the open market next offseason.
Masterson was one of the better pitchers in baseball in 2013, posting a 3.45 ERA, 3.35 FIP, 9.09 K/9, and 3.5 WAR in 193.0 innings, while earning an All-Star nod. He posted a combined 11.9 WAR from 2010-2013.