Valentin

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. -- Veteran third baseman John Valentin, bothered by a sore heel, is eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list for the Red Sox, but has balked at returning to Pawtucket for rehabilitation.

"I'm ready to go (into the lineup)," Valentin said Thursday, adding he saw no potential benefit from a stint with the team's AAA franchise in Rhode Island. He has the right of refusal because he has more than five years of big league experience.

If the Red Sox delay in activating Valentin after Friday, he could force them to reinstate him by early next week by filing a grievance.

Valentin also reiterated to manager Jimy Williams Thursday that he prefers not to play shortstop.

"I indicated to Jimy where I feel more comfortable, and obviously that is third base," Valentin said. "I feel I would be more productive there as a player, but that's still his decision to make."

The Red Sox, who open a three-game home stand against Toronto Friday night, already have rookie Shea Hillenbrand and veteran Chris Stynes at third.