Pirates' Tony Watson: Clings to closer role for now

Despite his recent struggles, Watson will remain the Pirates' closer, Bill Brink of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

Analysis:

After blowing his fourth save of the season Tuesday night, the left-hander's job seemed to be in jeopardy, although manager Clint Hurdle quelled those concerns Wednesday by giving Watson a vote of confidence. Watson still seems to be on the hot seat, but at least he still is the top ninth-inning option for Pittsburgh for now. He also may have a bit longer of a leash than other closers around the league in order to keep his trade stock up, although he'll need to show some improvement if he wants to remain relevant in shallower fantasy leagues.