Hi Scott.
Whilst we often get ships with broken masts, it is unusual for them to be in the starter sets. As you say it is an easy fix but it should not happen at all. Have you seen Herky Birds Solo rules in the Files section. They may be of interest.

https://www.sailsofglory.org/downloa...do=file&id=144

https://www.sailsofglory.org/downloa...do=file&id=140

We use them with some of our own in house rules added for the Solo Campaign.

Rob.