The lucrative contract signed by Reds right-hander Homer Bailey might have sealed the fate of Indians ace Justin Masterson, according to the Cleveland Plain Dealer. The two have recorded similar stats in recent years.
Bailey signed a six-year deal worth $105 million. Masterson avoided arbitration by accepting a one-year agreement for $9.76 million, but discussions on a long-term contract have not yielded success. He would seem to be destined for free agency after the 2014 season. The Indians are unlikely to match the years or money the Reds gave Bailey.