Tigers-Reds game postponed by rain

CINCINNATI -- The Tigers have kept their expectations tempered for Justin Verlander since his return from the disabled list. They've never expected him to command the weather.

• Cast your Esurance All-Star ballot for #ASGWorthy players

What was shaping up to be a long rain delay at Great American Ball Park quickly became a postponement of Thursday's series finale between the Tigers and Reds. The forecast called for rain off and on for much of the evening, but what was hoped to be a window in the radar quickly closed.

Verlander will now pitch Friday's series opener against the Yankees. Detroit kept its rotation in order and pushed everyone back, meaning Alfredo Simon and Anibal Sanchez will pitch Saturday and Sunday, respectively, in the Bronx.

The rain hadn't arrived at the scheduled game time of 7:10 p.m. ET, but rolled in by 7:30. Considering both teams had used their bullpens heavily the previous couple games -- including eight innings apiece Wednesday thanks to a sixth-inning rain delay and a 13-inning game -- the idea of losing both starting pitchers after an inning or two was less than appealing.

No makeup date was announced. The two teams have common off-days on three Mondays in August -- the 3rd, 17th and 24th. Aug. 3 is the Tigers' return from a three-city road trip at Boston, Tampa Bay and Baltimore. Aug. 17 is the Reds' return from a West Coast trip. Aug. 24 is in the middle of homestands for both teams.