Andrew Miller’s arrival in Boston appears imminent.
According to multiple reports out of Tampa Bay, Red Sox manager Terry Francona said Wednesday afternoon that Miller has decided not to use his opt-out clause and will remain with the organization. When and where he will be used with the big club remains to be seen.
"He's obviously a huge part of our organization and is going to stay that way," Francona told reporters at Tropicana Field. "That's kind of where we're at. He's not going anywhere. Whatever happens going forward, if and when and where, we'll make that announcement. I think as things unfold, it'll make sense. We can't get ahead of ourselves."
The 26-year-old left-hander, who has appeared in 13 games (12 starts) with Triple-A Pawtucket, had an opt-out clause which afforded him the opportunity of becoming a free agent if the Red Sox did not promote him by June 15. The Boston Globe first reported Tuesday night that Miller would be joining the Red Sox, likely as a member of a six-man rotation. His first start would come during the upcoming series against San Diego next week.
According to the Globe report, Miller would be mixed into the rotation with John Lackey and Tim Wakefield, with each presumably missing a start from time to time. Or, eventually, Wakefield could return to the bullpen, and Miller and Lackey could join the other three on regular routines.
Francona said those decisions will be announced in time.
Miller was 3-3 with a 2.47 ERA for the PawSox. He has been dynamite as the opt-out deadline approached, going 2-1 with a 1.78 ERA in his last four outings. The No. 6 overall pick in the 2006 draft, Miller had 26 strikeouts against just three walks in that time.
