Around the majors.(Baseball)

The RED SOX opted for 1B Kevin Millars solid bat over Doug Mientkiewicz's good glove. But Millar isn't the defensive liability some people perceive him to be. His club-house demeanor also is important, as he has kept things light in a pressure-packed atmosphere.... It appears 1B Carlos Delgado's arrival in Florida will push Jeff Conine into a utility role. Conine, the MARLINS' first baseman for much of last season, likely will back up Delgado and LF Miguel Cabrera. Conine, who had 83 RBIs last season, will add a potent bat off the bench and provide late-inning defense. He also is insurance in case RF Juan Encarnacion has another down year.... The RANGERS' refusal to move Mark Teixeira from first base, which helped end their negotiations with Delgado, speaks volumes of how far Teixeira has come defensively, as he regularly takes hits away and is adept at scooping low throws.... Scouts say BLUE JAYS RHP Dave Bush is unlikely to have a sophomore slump because of his personality and pitching style. Bush challenges hitters and rarely beats himself by making mistakes. Pitchers like Bush usually don't have extended slumps because their command and control remain consistent. Bush's main pitches are a high-80s/low-90s fastball and a curveball; he also throws a slider and a changeup.... The CARDINALS will use David Eckstein at shortstop this season, but in 2006 he could be bumped to second, which better suits his arm. SS Hector Luna showed promise as a Rule 5 pick with the team last season and could be ready to play full time in '06 if he continues progressing.... Don't be surprised if the INDIANS' Jose Hernandez fills in more in the outfield than in the infield. With new-comer Alex Cora around to help out in the infield, the versatile Hernandez offers great flexibility in the outfield, particularly if Grady Sizemore doesn't win the center field job and returns to Class AAA. ... RHP Bartolo Colon's offseason stint in the ...