The Blues used a 12-game winning streak to make the playoffs in 2024-25, led by Robert Thomas, but the team has a new X-factor in 2025-26.

The Illini defense has struggled situationally the last two weeks, and it is up to defensive coordinator Aaron Henry to right the ship ...

The Hurricanes have been a consisten playoff threat, but have not played for the Cup since 2006. This years X-factor looks to change that.

The postseason is finally here. Which teams are best positioned to win the World Series, and which players could determine their fate?

And then there were two. The 2025 WNBA Finals field is set after the Las Vegas Aces and Phoenix Mercury punched their tickets to the title series.

The LIV Golf star is being embraced by his teammates this week and could dazzle the New York crowds with his very first tee shot, Bob Harig writes.

The Ottawa Senators are looking to take another step towards winning a Stanley Cup in 2025-26, and this year's X-factor will play a key role.

There are some players who are obviously going to be central to any success -- or lack thereof -- that their team has in the postseason. Aaron Judge, Cal Raleigh, Shohei Ohtani, Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

NEW YORK — Over much of his first month with the Yankees, reliever Camilo Doval was a disappointment. He was pitching his way out of the high-leverage equation in the Yankees’ bullpen after coming ...

Giannis Antetokounmpo says Cole Anthony will be Milwaukee’s X-factor and “the surprise of the year” for 2025-26.

Martinez has a 4.72 ERA as a starter this season and a 2.89 ERA as a reliever. He has saved the Reds’ pitching staff multiple times this year with his ability to shift roles on the fly with the snap ...

Connor McDavid is a key Oilers player. But this player is the Oilers X-factor who could push them through the 2025-26 NHL season.