Marlins to have meeting with Justin Masterson

Miami is still looking to add a starting pitcher, and according to CBS Sports' Jon Heyman, the club has a meeting planned with free agent Justin Masterson. Both the Rangers and Red Sox have made offers, and Masterson might end up accepting his best offer considering he is coming off of an inconsistent 2014 campaign.

rangers and red sox have made offers on justin masterson. also talking to marlins, white sox, kc, sf, minn, etc.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) December 9, 2014

Masterson struggled to stay healthy with the Cardinals and Indians last season, but for any team seeking a starting pitcher could be a low-risk, high reward option. He went 7-9 in 2014, posting a 5.88 ERA and 4.50 FIP in 128.2 innings pitched.

The Marlins are looking for a front of the rotation arm until Jose Fernandez returns, and Masterson, if healthy, can prove to be just that. His 8.11 K/9 last season was the best in his major league career, however he had difficulty with command at times and as a result posted a career-high BB/9 (4.83). Masterson's best major league season came in 2011 with the Indians, when he pitched to a 3.21 ERA and 3.28 FIP in 216.0 innings pitched.

Masterson may be thinking about a two or three year deal, however Heyman reported on Monday night that the Red Sox's and Ranger's offers are only for one season.

Miami, even after signing Giancarlo Stanton to a $325 million contract, are likely not in a position to compete with some of the larger market teams who are pursuing Masterson. Although it is not clear if Masterson is looking for a multiyear deal, teams are likely hesitant to make an extended offer because of his recent injury issues.

If they were able to sign Masterson, the Marlins would clearly be upgrading their rotation. They may have to outbid other teams looking for starting arms, though, and might have to add an extra year or two despite Masterson's past.