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Masterson has signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers, Jon Heyman of FanRag Sports reports.
Masterson missed the entirety of the 2016 season with shoulder issues, but has been successful enough over an eight-year career to draw consistent interest this winter. Although Masterson is unlikely to open the season with the Dodgers, he'll serve as important depth for a rotation with many injury-prone pitchers. Masterson has also expressed willingness to pitch out of the bullpen, so we'll keep an eye on which role the Dodgers decide to prepare him for.
Masterson threw a live batting practice session in Reds camp Thursday, Mark Sheldon of MLB.com reports.
The right-hander did not appear in the majors in 2016, but he does hold lots of experience over his eight other seasons in the major leagues. That's a huge boon to his value given the inexperience in the Reds' current pitching staff, although he'll have to improve upon the 4.97 ERA he posted in 20 relief appearances and five starts with the Pirates' Triple-A affiliate last season if he wants to be in the conversation for a big league spot if the Reds do ultimately pull the trigger on signing him. It's unclear how close the two sides are to a deal, but the Reds have stated that any agreement with Masterson would be on a minor league deal.
Masterson will throw two showcases over the next week, ESPN's Jerry Crasnick reports.
According to Crasnick, roughly 12 teams will be in attendance for Masterson's showcases in Arizona. Masterson has been hampered by shoulder issues of late, but he did manage to pitch in 50 minor league games across two levels in the Pirates' organization in 2016. Masterson's agent said that he is willing to work as either a starter or a reliever and that the right-hander is 100 percent healthy.
According to Crasnick, roughly 12 teams will be in attendance for Masterson's showcases in Arizona. He has been hampered by shoulder issues of late, but he did manage to pitch in 50 minor league games across two levels in the Pirates' organization in 2016. Masterson's agent said that he is willing to work as either a starter or a reliever, and that the right-hander is 100 percent healthy.
Masterson (shoulder) will begin a throwing program in Arizona next week and plans to hold a showcase for potential suitors in late February, Paul Hoynes of Cleveland.com reports.
Masterson, a former All-Star, spent last season in the Pirates' organization, posting a 4.97 ERA and a 32:26 K:BB ratio over 25 games with Triple-A Indianapolis. It appears the 31-year-old is ready to give his career another chance after electing free agency in November. Masterson's velocity has clearly fallen off since his dominant 2013 season, when he led the MLB in shutout victories. Consider him a long shot to make a roster at this point.
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