Source: Miller to be promoted; will pitch Monday

By Sean McAdam
CSNNE.com Red Sox InsiderFollow @sean_mcadam
ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- While no announcement was made Wednesday, the Red Sox intend to promote left-hander Andrew Miller to their big-league roster this weekend and have him make his Boston debut Monday against the San Diego Padres, a source with knowledge of the situation said.

Prior to Wednesday's game, Red Sox manager Terry Francona spoke of Miller in mostly general terms.

"I think where we're at is, he's obviously a big part of our organization," said Francona. "And he's going to stay that way. He's not going anywhere (indicating that Miller will not be utilizing his opt-out clause, which kicked in Wednesday). Whatever happens going forward, if and when, we'll make that announcement as things unfold. It will make sense, but we can't get ahead of ourselves."

Miller is 3-3 with a 2.47 ERA in 13 appearances for Triple-A Pawtucket, and has shown greatly improved control in his last four starts. He's walked only three batters in his last 25 13 innings, covering his last four starts.

The Red Sox had their hand forced because they were aware that a number of teams were prepared Miller a spot in their rotation immediately.

It's believed that Miller's presence in the rotation will eventually force Tim Wakefield's return to the bullpen. But for now, the plan is for Wakefield to make his next scheduled start, Sunday against Milwaukee.

There's a limit, however, to how long the Red Sox can maintain a six-man rotation, particularly with two upcoming scheduled off-days -- June 23 and June 27. Providing six starters with enough work would be difficult in any case, but the two off-days in the span of four would make that problematic.