Red Sox pitcher Miller

PORTLAND, MAINE - to face Aeros in Game 3

Just before the Eastern League Championship series started Tuesday,
the Portland Sea Dogs announced a change in their pitching rotation.

Instead of right-hander Anibal Sanchez (3-5, 3.45 ERA), Boston Red Sox
right-hander Wade Miller will face Aeros right-hander Brian Slocum in
Game 3 on Friday.

Miller will be making his second appearance with the Sea Dogs on a
rehab assignment for right shoulder stiffness. Sanchez, ranked by
Baseball America as the Red Sox's fifth-best prospect, has been moved
to the bullpen and will likely take over for Miller.

If the series goes to a deciding fifth game, ace Jeremy Sowers said he
will be ready to pitch.

``Because there's a day off (Thursday), that'll be my fifth day
anyway,'' Sowers said. ``So, I'm preparing as if I'm pitching.''

Currently, the Aeros have rookie right-hander Tom Mastny scheduled for
Game 5.

IN SUPPORT -- Watching the past two games at Hadlock Field in support
of the Aeros were Indians director of player development John Farrell
and Aeros CEO and president Greg Agganis. Farrell was obviously in
town on business. Agganis, who lives just an hour-and-a-half away in
Boston, came as a fan. He even wore his 2003 Aeros championship ring
for good luck.

``It's the first time I've worn it, so we'll see how it does,''
Agganis said.

UP NEXT -- After two games in Portland, the ELCS shifts to Akron for
the remainder of the best-of-five series, beginning at 7:05 p.m.
Friday at Canal Park.