Miller 'not too concerned' with left hamstring issue

BALTIMORE -- Andrew Miller never had a formal conversation with Buck Showalter about his availability for Tuesday's series opener against the Reds. He just figured he would get the day off.

A day later, the relief pitcher said the cramp in his left hamstring is feeling better and, while he didn't throw at all on Tuesday, he feels as if he's about ready to return after a brief absence.

"I'm not really too concerned with it," Miller said on Wednesday.

Miller's is the latest in a string of minor injuries that have held contributors out in recent days. Shortstop J.J. Hardy is back in the starting lineup on Wednesday after missing Tuesday's 5-4 win with lower back spasms. Steve Pearce is out of the starting lineup for the fifth consecutive game because of a right abdominal strain. Even Adam Jones is getting a rare day as the designated hitter

Miller, who was acquired from the Red Sox at the Trade Deadline, tweaked his left leg on his final pitch of the Orioles' loss to the Twins on Monday. During that outing, Miller allowed only his second earned run since joining Baltimore.

Miller understands if the team takes extra precaution -- he's injured the hamstring twice in the past -- but said he will make himself available to pitch on Wednesday night if needed.

"It's all as minimal as it could possibly be," Miller said.