DENVER -- When Felipe Rivero stepped into the closer's role, he didn't just solidify the back end of the Pirates' bullpen, but the front end, as well.
Tony Watson and Daniel Hudson -- the two veterans originally slated for the late innings -- have rebounded to their old selves since Rivero began dominating the ninth. Entering Friday, Watson owns a 2.08 ERA since the June 9 switch and Hudson has a 1.93 ERA, and they've both lowered their season-long marks nearly a full run.
"It's a fun thing to watch, and these men are guys that have pitched much bigger leverage innings in the past," Pirates manager Clint Hurdle said.