Masterson, Justin

Masterson was a second round pick in 2006 out of San Diego State University for the Red Sox and arrived in the big leagues after less than 100 IP above A-ball and with just a handful of triple-A innings. He was largely excellent as a set-up guy and enjoyed mixed results as a starter. This was to be expected given his quick rise through the professional ranks.

Masterson went over to the Indians in the Victor Martinez trade and was not very good. He's a sinker ball pitcher with an iffy accompanying slider and a change-up that needs to be kept out of the zone. Like most sinkerball pitchers, he's in trouble when it doesn't sink and he really needs a second pitch against lefties.

Masterson could easily be the ace of the Cleveland staff, which is more a testament to the paucity of starting pitching by the lake. You'd be well advised to watch his walk rates against lefties (5.29 per nine innings in 2009) and perhaps spot start him against south-paw heavy orders. 11-0-3.90-160. 180IP