Miller gets much-needed work in during live BP

ST. LOUIS -- Though the live batting practice session staged at Busch Stadium on Sunday afternoon was scheduled so that Allen Craig could work on the timing of his swing, there was also a residual benefit for the one doing the pitching.

Shelby Miller, along with reserve pitcher Tyler Lyons, simulated two game "innings" during the session. It was welcome work for Miller, who has thrown only once since making his final regular-season start on Sept. 25. The Cardinals have been keeping him available for a multiple-innings relief stint in the bullpen.

Having Miller stretch out his arm on Sunday, though, was not an indication of any changing usage. The Cardinals do not have plans to start him against the Red Sox in the World Series.

"The idea for Shelby and the conversation with Shelby from day one is that he could have an expanded role at any point," manager Mike Matheny said. "He needs to stay sharp. We had an opportunity for him to see some live hitters, and live hitters an opportunity to see him as well. Everybody got a benefit through that. We need Shelby to stay sharp in his mind, because at any point, we might need him to come and fill a number of different roles. He looked good today, and we were excited to see that."

Miller, a 15-game winner during the regular season, made his only appearance of the postseason on Oct. 4 during Game 2 of the National League Division Series against the Pirates.