By Peter Abraham, Globe Staff
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — Lefthander Andrew Miller has decided to stay with the Red Sox, manager Terry Francona said.
The Class AAA starter had the option of declaring free agency today if the Red Sox did not promote him to the majors. But as the Globe reported last night, a compromise was reached that will culminate with Miller joining the rotation next week. He is expected to pitch against the San Diego Padres on Monday.
"He's obviously a huge part of our organization and is going to stay that way," Francona said. "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."
Miller, 26, is 3-3 with a 2.47 earned run average in 13 appearances for Pawtucket. But he has been dominant in recent weeks, allowing five earned runs over his last 25 1/3 innings with three walks and 26 strikeouts.
Miller went 5 1/3 innings against Charlotte last night, allowing one run on five hits with one walk and 10 strikeouts.
According to a major league source, the Red Sox plan to keep Jon Lester, Clay Buchholz and Josh Beckett their five-day routines for the most part and mix Miller, John Lackey and Tim Wakefield into the rotation.
Wakefield could prove the odd man out despite his having pitched well as a starter in recent weeks.
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