Pirates sign Justin Masterson to a minor league contract

AP Photo/Ben Margo

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MLB Network’s Jon Heyman reports that Pirates and pitcher Justin Mastersonhave agreed to a minor league contract. Presumably, Masterson will report to Triple-A Indianapolis.

Masterson, 31, struggled mightily over the last two seasons. He compiled a 5.88 ERA with the Indians and Cardinals in 2014, and a 5.61 ERA with the Red Sox last year. He’s always been inconsistent, but the Pirates are hoping to set him back on the right path.

Masterson won’t be privy to major league pitching coach Ray Searage, but perhaps Searage’s magic touch can be transferred over a phone or Skype call.