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Boston Red Sox sign Justin Masterson

The 29-year old starter brings experience and adds depth to the Red Sox's rotation.

Joy R. Absalon-USA TODAY Sports

Boston went into the Winter Meetings looking to add depth to its rotation, and did so over the course of the week. In addition to adding Rick Porcello, the Red Sox signed Justin Masterson to a one-year, $9.5 million deal, according to Peter Abraham of The Boston Globe.

After Jon Lester signed with the Cubs, several teams looking to add a starting pitcher considered Masterson. In 128.2 innings pitched last season, he posted a 5.88 ERA and 4.50 FIP. Masterson, 29, was drafted by the Red Sox but was traded to Detroit in 2009 in a deal for Victor Martinez. He didn't become a full-time starter since 2010, and since has posted a 4.05 ERA over the last four seasons.

Cleveland was willing to extend Masterson last offseason, reportedly offering him a three-year, $51 million contract that he subsequently turned down. Masterson had difficulty with his command before being traded to St.Louis, posting a 5.51 ERA prior to the July trade. As a Cardinal, Masterson continued to struggle, posting a 7.04 ERA during the second half of the season.

Shoulder and knee injuries reportedly led to Masterson's inconsistencies, and several squads viewed him as a low-risk, high reward type player. He was looking for a one-year deal in order to bounce back with hopes of an extensive free agent contract or extension next offseason.

The Red Sox were interested in several big name free agent starters, however shifted their attention after losing out on Lester. In addition to signing Masterson and acquiring Porcello, the Red Sox also added Wade Miley to the rotation. Both the Tigers and Diamondbacks received major league talent in exchange for their respective starters, with the Red Sox not having a problem with trading Yoenis Cespedes or Rubby De La Rosa.

Boston is looking to compete in the American League East in 2015, and having already signed Pablo Sandoval and Hanley Ramirez, was confident it improved the roster upon leaving the Winter Meetings.