Playoff X-Factors: Which Players Will Make the Key Differences in a Quest for the World Series?

It's playoff time, which means some players could make the big difference between an early exit and a World Series title. May we present our 2017 playoff x-factors.

With the Division Series set to begin on Thursday afternoon in Houston, SI writers Ben Reiter and Gabriel Baumgaertner took time to develop the primary x-factors of this year's playoffs. Could it be a big star? Sure, take Chris Sale's recent slump in Boston. If he's not pitching like his usual self, then there's little chance the Red Sox are going to win the AL pennant. Or is it a little known figure like Tony Watson in Los Angeles? A lefty who may not face many hitters, but is a crucial piece for the Dodgers to get to esteemed closer Kenley Jansen. Each of these players will be essential to their teams' hopes as the long haul of the playoffs kicks off.