The Red Sox acquired Andrew Miller by trade in November then signed him to a Minor League deal in December. More recently, the details of a controversial clause has come to light. Should Miller get promoted to the Majors he would need to clear waivers to get sent back to the minors. The clause guarantees that if claimed his 2012 club option for $3 Million is vested.
Miller is certainly a solid sign for the sox. He turns 26 in May, and can throw in the rotation or out of the pen. He was a once highly touted prospect drafted in the first round by Detroit in 2006. He was subsequently rushed to the Majors and was never really given a chance to develop. At 6’7” tall and a southpaw he was immediately compared to in stature and style to Randy Johnson. Needless to say he never realized that potential. The way he was handled, he never really stood a chance.
The Miller signing was certainly a great one for the Sox. He has a huge upside, came cheap, and fills a lefty need from the pen is he pans out. He will likely stat the season throwing from the Pawtucket Red Sox (AAA) bullpen. Miller will not likely get a shot early on, but should he perform at AAA, there is a need for a strong throwing lefty, or someone at the Major League Level should falter, he will get a chance.
There is also an out clause that would require the Red Sox to grant him his release should he not be in the Majors by a certain date.
This clause kicking in should effectively protect any team from claiming him if he is needed for a spot appearance. The question is, is the waiver clause an ethical clause to put in a contract?