Indians Trade Justin Masterson To Cardinals For Outfield Prospect

Justin Masterson is on the move, according to multiple reports.

The Cleveland Indians right-hander has been traded to the St. Louis Cardinals, Peter Gammons and Joel Sherman reported Wednesday afternoon.

In return, the Indians will receive outfield prospect James Ramsey, according to Sherman. Ramsey, who is ranked as the Cardinals’ No. 6 prospect on MLB.com, is hitting .300 with 13 home runs and 36 RBIs in 67 games for Double-A Springfield this season.

Masterson, a 2013 All-Star, was one of the top starters mentioned in trade rumors as Thursday’s non-waiver trade deadline nears. The 29-year-old has put up less-than-stellar numbers this season, though, posting a 5.51 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 19 starts for the Tribe — both of which are on pace for career worsts. He’s allowed five runs or more in three of his last five outings and has not pitched since July 7 due to a knee injury.

Masterson is expected to make his Cardinals debut Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers, per USA Today’s Bob Nightengale.

The trade likely means the Cardinals are out of the running for Boston Red Sox left-hander Jon Lester. St. Louis is among several clubs rumored to have shown interest in the Red Sox ace.

UPDATE (2:50 p.m.): The teams have confirmed the trade, with the Indians announcing that Ramsey will be assigned to Triple-A Columbus.

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