According to Zach Meisel of the PD, what this show discussed on Friday and Monday as being a very likely scenario, has played out. The Tribe are so far sellers in this market instead of buyers, having reportedly just dealt Justin Masterson to the Cardinals for outfield prospect James Ramsey. With the proposition of keeping Masty next year being slim to none, getting something in return thats more than a compensation pick is a plus, and 24 year old former 2012 first round pick out of Florida State James Ramsey is definitely a plus. Having spent most his time in the Cards AA affiliate, this #7 ranked prospect in their system (according to Fangraphs and Steamers) in 67 games this season posted a very good wOBA of .410, and showed some pop in belting 13 home runs in only 281 plate appearances. As for Masty, as much as this team needs starting pitching more than it might need anything else, given what production theyve gotten so far on the year with Justin mostly being a ghost of himself due to injury and a drop in velocity, you have to see this as a solid move for the team given all the circumstances. Now if they can only find someone to give them something, anything, for Asdrubal... Fingers crossed. On a personal note, Im sad to see Masterson go. He was always approachable and was one of the first players I ever got to know a little bit about beyond the game of baseball. Of course his parents who live and teach in Beavercreek, Ohio where I still have relatives who do the same, provided an easy ice breaker. No matter his performance any given day, I could always count on a smile and a cordial how do you do from Masty, which I have found to be far from the norm between the media and the players. Solid guy, all the way around. He will be missed and I wish him all the best. - Mike James
Posted on: Wed, 30 Jul 2014 18:57:28 +0000