St. Louis Cardinals acquire Justin Masterson for James Ramsey

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The St. Louis Cardinals have acquired right-handed starting pitcher Justin Masterson from the Cleveland Indians in exchange for Springfield Cardinals (AA) outfielder James Ramsey.

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Forget David Price, Jon Lester, or Cole Hamels. The Cardinals have turned to the Cleveland Indians for a starting pitcher and they only had to give up one of their 2012 first round picks to get him. Of course, it is always true that they may not be done making moves so never say never.

Masterson was in the third year of being eligible for arbitration and is making $9.76 million this season. Masterson is also a free agent at the end of the 2014 season so the team will either re-sign him following the season or allow him to walk.

Masterson is expected to join the club in St. Louis on Friday and take his first start with the Cardinals on Saturday against the Milwaukee Brewers.

The 29-year-old is 4-6 with a 5.51 ERA this season over 19 starts. In 98 innings pitched, Masterson has struck out 93 batters. Prior to today’s trade, Masterson had been placed on the 15-day DL and has made two rehab starts for the Columbus (AAA) affiliate.

Masterson was selected to play for the American League in the 2013 All-Star Game. Last season, he posted a 14-10 record with a 3.45 ERA. His 195 strikeouts were good enough for a top ten finish while he led the AL in three shutouts. Over his career, he owns a 57-49 record with a 4.16 ERA in 231 appearances (169 starts) split between the Boston Red Sox (2008-09) and Cleveland (2009-14).

The Cardinals have also announced that they have transferred pitcher Michael Wacha from the 15-day disabled list to the 60-day D.L. Another move will be made to the 25-man roster before Friday’s game when Masterson reports to the Cardinals.