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Identifying the 10 Biggest X-Factors of MLB's 2015 2nd Half

With the second half of the 2015 MLB regular season beginning Friday night, why not analyze which players will have the biggest say in how the playoff race will shake out?

Timing is critical in every aspect of life, and that adage holds true in sports. Players who find their groove in the second half can spark their teams to postseason glory.

With MLB in the midst of incredible parity, there are a host of potential X-factors throughout the league.

Young prospects like Carlos Correa and Corey Seager can infuse their clubs with a youthful exuberance that revitalizes the organizations.

Players such as Matt Cain, Kevin Gausman and David Wright can return from injuries to serve as pseudo-deadline acquisitions. 

Trade targets like Cole Hamels and Johnny Cueto can completely alter the landscape of the game by landing with a pitching-needy contender. 

Regardless of each player's current situation, the following names will play enormous roles in terms of playoff seeding. Their ability to perform at a high level can drastically change how the playoff race looks come October. 

Let's get started with our honorable mentions!

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