Twins

It took awhile for this prediction to come true, but I said the main problem I had with Target Field when it first opened up (even though most fans like outdoor stadiums) is that outdoor stadiums meant rainouts, and that sometime in the future, a rainout would mean having to play a meaningful double header (or two) in September during a playoff hunt, and that playing double headers impacts a team's ability to win a playoff spot. The only reason it hasn't happened already is because the Twins haven't been IN a playoff race in September since playing at Target Field.

Losing yesterday's double header was bad enough, but double headers, especially when one of those games was extra innings, puts a strain on the bullpen which has a detrimental effect on future games (and wins) as well.

We'll see in the coming week if that indeed is the case. Up until now I liked the Twins chances at getting a last playoff spot. Vegas odds makers had the Twins at a 22% chance of making the playoffs on Wednesday. That dropped to 10% yesterday. They now how the odds work more than anybody.

sigh