Francona gets new deal

After managing the Red Sox to two World Series championships in four seasons, Francona was rewarded Sunday with a three-year contract extension that runs through 2011.

The deal includes club options for 2012 and 2013, which would give him a full decade as manager if the team exercises them.

Francona guided the Red Sox to World Series sweeps of St. Louis in 2004, their first title in 86 years, and Colorado last year. He succeeded Grady Little in December 2003 and later received a two-year extension through the 2008 season.

At 48, he is entering his fifth season as manager. If he serves the full three-year extension, he would have eight seasons on the job. The only Red Sox manager with a longer tenure was Joe Cronin, who held the job from 1935-47.

Backe foot injury not serious: Houston Astros pitcher Brandon Backe was held out of Sunday's workout because of a bone bruise on his right foot. He was hit by a hard grounder during batting practice Saturday.

X-rays were negative, and manager Cecil Cooper said the injury wasn't serious.

"We're going to get him some extra rest to make sure he's OK," Cooper said. "At this point, nothing to be alarmed about. I'd just rather be cautious than take a chance."

Backe was slated to start Thursday's exhibition opener against Cleveland, but doubted he would be ready in time.