Watson Works And Waits
BRADENTON, Fla. (93-7 The Fan) – Left-handed reliever Tony Watson is entering what should be his second full-season with the Pirates, but first he has to straighten some things out.
After allowing four runs in just two-thirds of an inning against the Red Sox Feb. 28, Watson has not pitched in a game, instead working out some kinks in the bullpen.
"Just throwing some bullpens on the side," Watson said Friday, "getting a game on Sunday, so get some live hitters going. Everything feels great, hopefully we'll get going and get on the right track heading up north."
Watson says it's just a few tweaks here and there but it's tough to be patient while others are competing for spots.
"Good arms in the clubhouse all-around," he said. "The competition has been great, we're all having fun and getting along but competing at the same time."
For much of last season, Watson was really the only lefty in the bullpen, but now finds himself trying to hang onto his job.
"I never feel like I'm safe," Watson said. With Justin Wilson, and newcomers Mike Zagurski and Kris Johnson having good springs, Watson says, "nothing's guaranteed so you just have to out there and do your stuff."
- Listen to Watson's interview with Jim Colony:
