Watson lost his salary arbitration case against the Pirates, and he'll make $5.6 million this season instead of his requested $6 million, Stephen J. Nesbitt of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports.

EDGE Analysis

Watson saved 15 games and posted a 3.06 ERA last year, taking over the closer role after Pittsburgh traded Mark Melancon. He's set to occupy the same role heading into 2017 and could wind up a productive fantasy value pick, though he falls a bit short with strikeouts compared to most stoppers. Daniel Hudson and Felipe Rivero may earn consideration for save opportunities if he struggles.

The Pirates and Watson were unable to reach agreement over a new contract prior to the Friday deadline and will head to arbitration, the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review reports.

EDGE Analysis

Watson, who will become a free agent following the 2017 season, was reportedly offered only a one-year deal. It's apparent that the southpaw's time in Pittsburgh is dwindling and it wouldn't be surprising to see the team's current closer traded. Teams such as the Mariners have inquired as to his availability. Felipe Rivero and Juan Nicasio would become candidates for saves in the event Watson is dealt.

Watson struck out two in a clean ninth inning for his 14th save Tuesday against Milwaukee.

EDGE Analysis

This marks the 12th time Watson has struck out at least two batters in an appearance. Still, with just 55 strikeouts in 64.2 innings and a 3.25 ERA, he's one of the most mediocre relievers in a closing role right now. Watson has converted just 14 of his 19 save chances.

Watson allowed a solo homer but picked up his 13th save Friday against Cincinnati.

EDGE Analysis

He entered the game with a three-run lead and promptly gave up a leadoff homer to Steve Selsky. Watson then settled down and struck out Joey Votto swinging. His fastball averaged 93.8 mph, its highest level since Aug. 11 (94 mph), a span of 15 outings.

Watson nailed down his 12th save Tuesday in Philadelphia, striking out two in a perfect inning.

EDGE Analysis

Watson showed Phillies counterpart Jeanmar Gomez how it's done, shutting the door in the bottom of the ninth after Gomez blew his chance at a save in the top half of the inning. This effective outing was much needed after the lefty allowed the opposition to score in three of his previous five appearances.

Watson took the loss for the second time in three appearances Friday, allowing one run on two hits in one inning against the Reds.

EDGE Analysis

He entered the game in the ninth inning with the score tied at three. A sacrifice fly proved to be the difference after Watson endured some questionable decision-making by his defense. The lefty has compiled a 4.96 ERA with three blown saves in 14 opportunities since taking over as Pittsburgh's closer.

Watson threw a scoreless ninth inning Wednesday, earning his 11th save in 14 opportunities since being named the Pirates' closer in August.

EDGE Analysis

Despite throwing for the third time in as many days, manager Clint Hurdle had no problem sending him back on the mound following a disastrous performance Tuesday. Watson needed just 11 pitches to retire the Cardinals in order Wednesday. Fittingly, he got Matt Carpenter -- who belted a two-out, game-tying homer Tuesday -- to fly out to end the game.

Watson (2-4) was disastrous Tuesday, blowing his fifth save of the season in spectacular fashion by allowing the Cardinals to score four runs on three homers in just two-thirds of an inning.

EDGE Analysis

Watson entered with a 6-5 lead, but came apart after pinch-hitter Matt Carpenter tied the game with a solo homer. Two more home runs and three runs later, the closer was pulled trailing 9-6. The scuffling reliever is going through a major rough patch after also allowing a game-tying homer in his previous outing.

With the Pirates mired in a six-game losing streak, Watson hasn't pitched since Aug. 29.

EDGE Analysis

He's probably looking to see action as soon as possible, especially since he allowed a game-tying homer to the Cubs' Willson Contreras in his last outing. Watson has recorded 10 saves since taking over as Pittsburgh's closer, but he hasn't been the lock-down reliever many expected.

Watson blew his fourth save as he allowed a solo home run to tie the game in the ninth inning Monday against the Cubs.

EDGE Analysis

Two of those blown saves came before Watson took over as closer in August, so he has been more successful than his 10-for-14 conversion rate would suggest. Still, he has just a 9:5 K:BB, and this is already the second homer he has allowed in just 12.2 innings this month -- hardly peripherals that inspire confidence in Watson's ability to close long term.