Dr. James Andrews found no structural damage in Frank Francisco’s injured pectoral muscle, but John Lott of the National Post reports that he’ll begin the season on the disabled list anyway.
Octavio Dotel is also sidelined by a hamstring injury that could keep him out for Opening Day, which means Jon Rauch is now the favorite for early season saves in Toronto.
Rauch stepped in for Joe Nathan as the Twins’ closer last season and converted 21-of-25 saves through late July, but the Twins then acquired Matt Capps from the Nationals and moved Rauch into a middle relief role.
Francisco is scheduled to begin a throwing program as soon as Sunday, so barring a setback his DL stint may not be a long one.
