X-Factors for each MLB playoff team

Sep 23, 2015; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays starting pitcher Marcus Stroman (6) reacts to catcher Russell Martin (55) on his three run home run in the seventh inning against the New York Yankees at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

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Aug 27, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Pittsburgh Pirates relief pitcher Tony Watson (44) throws the ball in the eighth inning of a game against the Miami Marlins at Marlins Park. The Pirates won 2-1. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports /

Pittsburgh Pirates: Tony Watson

The well-rounded Pirates own baseball’s second-best record and are not all that far behind the seemingly untouchable Cardinals for the NL Central lead. With stars like Andrew McCutchen and Gerrit Cole plus a solid supporting cast, it’s not hard to see why.

Still, every team in the NL postseason is going to counter with their own star power, particularly in their respective starting rotations. A role player like Watson could be the piece that makes the difference in the hotly-contested Senior Circuit playoffs.

If you asked most fans who Pittsburgh’s best reliever is, many would say outstanding closer Mark Melancon, who leads the league in saves. Still, Watson is having a strong year of his own, posting a 2.05 ERA (2.87 FIP) and 1.3 WAR per FanGraphs, most among Pirates relievers.

That follows an equally impressive 2014 campaign, in which Watson posted a 1.63 ERA and 2.69 FIP. Despite not being a household name outside of Pittsburgh and losing some velocity from last season, Watson has proven himself to be one of the best setup men in the NL.

Watson will be huge in bridging the gap from Pittsburgh’s strong rotation to Melancon. The rest of the bullpen isn’t as reliable, so the Pirates can’t afford any slip-ups from Watson.

Next: Chicago Cubs: Jorge Soler

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