How much does the rainout hurt the Twins?

Easy, not so quick on the panic button. Remember that the rainout affects the Tigers in the exact same way. Sweeping a doubleheader is no more difficult than winning two games in a row.

Mauer can probably catch three games and still be in the lineup as DH in the other. Pitching staff should be fine, although someone will probably go on short rest this weekend.

I still like the Twins chances.

Edit: Game 1 win, so far so good.

the rain out actually should prove to help the twins. They have a much deeper bullpen than the tigers so that's one big advantage in the doubleheader, plus Blackburn is a much better pitcher in afternoon games according to his split stats. (3.33 era in afternoon, 5.20 at night)

I don't understand Jim Leyland's rationale in deciding not to start Verlander in the afternoon. His era in afternoon games is just over 2.00 versus an era close to 5.00 in night games.

Also, if the Twins get a split in the doubleheader it's not the end of their season at all. They will win on Wednesday for sure as Pavano is pitching much better than Bonine and then they'll be one back on Thursday with everything on the line.

Good luck Twins. I'm not a fan of either team but the Twins have a much lower payroll so lets go underdogs. Win that division and beat those $200 million Yankees.

It didn't yet did it? Next game starts soon.

They should be ok.