2024 MLB World Series odds MLB futures pennant division odds wins total odds preseason projections picks and predictions

Best bets: 2024 Pittsburgh Pirates World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Pittsburgh Pirates World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Pittsburgh Pirates wrapped up with a 76-86 record last season, placing 4th in the fairly competitive National League Central Division. The Bucs showed some signs of life at the beginning of the season, posting an impressive 20-8 record through the 1st 28 games.

Pittsburgh looked to be a potential surprise team heading into May, but then the team slid back toward the bottom of the division. There were some signs of encouragement, though. The 86 losses were the fewest in a full season since 2018, and it snapped a 2-year run with triple-digit loss totals.

It was the 2nd consecutive season the team didn’t finish in the basement of the NL Central, too. But can this team improve enough over the course of a full season to make it back to the postseason for the 1st time since 2015. Let’s analyze the Pittsburgh Pirates’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Pittsburgh Pirates World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday, March 26, at 6:58 p.m. ET.

Odds: +20000 (bet $100 to win $20,000)

The Pirates do not have the longest odds to win the World Series, but they’re much closer to the long-shots than they are to the favorites.

In their own division, the St. Louis Cardinals (+3000), who finished behind the Pirates in 2023, are the team with the shortest World Series odds among NL Central squads. The Chicago Cubs (+3500) are next, followed by the Cincinnati Reds (+5500) and the Milwaukee Brewers (+9000), with the Bucs holding up the end.

The Los Angeles Dodgers (+320) are the favorites, followed by the Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+700), New York Yankees (+900) and the defending champion Texas Rangers (+1400) and Baltimore Orioles (+1400).

At +20000, Pittsburgh has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 0.50% or 200/1 fractional odds.

The Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics are tied for the longest odds at +50000. The Chicago White Sox and Washington Nationals are next at +25000, with the Bucs next at +20000.

The Pirates have an uphill battle just to get to respectability, and the NL Central is going to be a war this season, with 3 legitimate postseason contenders. The Pirates aren’t one of them.

AVOID.

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Pittsburgh Pirates playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +400 | No -650

The Pirates actually have a pretty impressive lineup. While cleanup hitter DH Andrew McCutchen is getting a little long in the tooth, at least in terms of the others on the roster, this team has a solid base. SS Oneil Cruz had a serious ankle injury, but he is healthy again and expected to be the table setter at the top. OF Brian Reynolds and 3B Ke’Bryan Hayes give this team a solid, young corps to build around offensively.

After McCutcheon, things become a little less clear. OF Jack Suwinski could be solid, and C Henry Davis is youthful, and ready to handle the chores behind the dish. He was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2021 MLB Draft.

The team isn’t planning on rushing SP Paul Skenes, a fellow No. 1 overall pick from the 2023 MLB Draft, and he begins in the minors. He has been tickling triple digits on the radar gun, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see him at some point this summer.

Until then, RHP Mitch Keller, in the Steel City on a long-term deal, is the bedrock in the rotation, followed by veteran LHPs Martin Perez and Marco Gonzalez. There is some veteran talent there. The pitching isn’t deep, and 1 or 2 others really exceed expectations to get this team into contention.

No (-650) is likely the outcome, but you can’t risk 6 1/2 times your potential return. However, playing a few dollars on YES (+400) for a chance to multiply up by 4 times isn’t a terrible idea if you have some funds you don’t mind tying up for the summer.

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Pittsburgh Pirates win total

Over/Under: 75.5 (O: -118 | U: -104)

This team won 76 games last season, and they’re arguably better this season.

We may or may not see Skenes, but we might not need to see him to get this total across the finish line. At a minimum, I could see this team eclipsing the OVER 75.5 WINS (-110) in the final week of the season, but 80 wins shouldn’t be scoffed at. This team could easily compete to at least go .500, and that’s not bad. The arrow for the Pirates is definitely pointing upwards.

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To win NL Central Division

St. Louis Cardinals +150 (bet $100 to win $150)
Chicago Cubs +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Cincinnati Reds +400 (bet $100 to win $400)
Milwaukee Brewers +700 (bet $100 to win $700)
Pittsburgh Pirates +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200)

Pittsburgh has an implied probability of winning the NL Central of 7.69% or 12/1 fractional odds.

The Pirates have a much better chance of finishing 4th or 5th in the division than they do competing for the top spot. The Cardinals and Cubs are free-spending, and the Reds have an assortment of exciting, young talent. The Bucs will mostly be competing with the gutted Brewers to avoid the cellar in the NL Central.

PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +10000 (bet $100 to win $10,000)

The Pirates will do well to exceed their win total, and perhaps get to, or crack, the .500 mark.

This isn’t a team ready to contend for the World Series, but the blueprint is in place by general manager Ben Cherington to have some long-term success, locking key, young building blocks in place for a sustained run. However, that run isn’t happening in 2024.

AVOID.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Best bets: 2024 New York Mets World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 New York Mets World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The New York Mets were projected to win 92.5 games last season and had the 2nd-shortest odds to win it all at +700. Instead, they became sellers at the trade deadline, finished 75-87 and failed to make the playoffs.

However, New York has made strides in the offseason, adding CF Harrison Bader, signing LHP Sean Manaea, agreeing to a deal with DH J.D. Martinez, and snatching up RHP Luis Severino. Let’s analyze the New York Mets’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

New York Mets World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday, March 26 at 5:56 a.m. ET.

Odds: +4500 (bet $100 to win $4,500)

New York is tied with the San Francisco Giants for the 15th-shortest odds to win it all.

The favorites are the Los Angeles Dodgers (+320), Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+700) and New York Yankees (+900), while the biggest long shots are the Colorado Rockies (+50000), Oakland Athletics (+50000), Chicago White Sox (+25000) and Washington Nationals (+25000).

At +4500, New York has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 2.17%.

The Mets have improved in the winter, but even if RHP Kodai Senga has a Cy Young caliber season after returning from his shoulder injury, it’s very unlikely that they would be able to compete with the likes of the Dodgers, Braves and Astros.

PASS.

New York Mets playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +180 | No -235

The NL East is a tough division. The Mets making the playoffs would likely rely on the Philadelphia Phillies having a down season. This market has a 5.54% hold, compared to a 4.55% hold when both sides are -110. You’d be better off taking the Under on the Phillies’ season win total (89.5) if you like the Mets to make the playoffs.

PASS.

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New York Mets win total

Over/Under: 81.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Will the Mets be an above-.500 team?

They finished with just 75 wins last season after trading away RHP Max Scherzer and RHP Justin Verlander. So are the additions of Bader, Manaea, Martinez and Severino worth 7 wins? I don’t believe so. However, this number was 83.5 back in January, so I’m afraid most of the value has already been bet out of this line.

LEAN UNDER 81.5 (-115).

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To win NL East Division

Atlanta Braves -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
Philadelphia Phillies +280 (bet $100 to win $280)
New York Mets +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)
Miami Marlins +3500 (bet $100 to win $3,500)
Washington Nationals +12000 (bet $100 to win $12,000)

New York’s implied probability of winning the NL East is 7.14%.

While the Mets have a lineup that features C Francisco Álvarez, 1B Pete Alonso, SS Francisco Lindor, Martinez, and LF Brandon Nimmo, it likely won’t be enough to keep pace with the Braves, who are projected to be the 2nd-best team in MLB.

Even if the Braves were to have a down season, the Mets would have to finish with a better record than the Phillies, who are also rolling out a more talented roster than New York.

PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +2400 (bet $100 to win $2,400)

The Mets are tied with the San Diego Padres for the 8th-shortest odds to win the National League.

New York had a much more impressive roster on Opening Day last season, and it still didn’t even manage to make the playoffs, let alone make an appearance in the NLCS.

The organization is resetting in hopes of building a winner for the future, so if Senga can continue to improve and the Mets somehow make the playoffs, that should be enough to make New York fans happy this season.

You’d be better off playing 1 of the favorites in this market. The Dodgers (+165) have the shortest odds, followed by the Braves (+250) and Phillies (+800).

PASS.

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Best bets: 2024 Cleveland Guardians World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Cleveland Guardians World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Cleveland Guardians ended up with a 76-86 record last season, finishing in 3rd place, 11 games behind the division champion Minnesota Twins.

There is a changing of the guard in The Land, too, as manager Terry Francona stepped away after 11 seasons. First-time manager Stephen Vogt, a former Major League catcher, will assume the skipper role heading into 2024 and beyond.

The Guardians will have a decent pitching staff, and they’ll have to get the most out of their offense to be competitive. The team added C Austin Hedges to a 1-year deal, as well as SP Ben Lively, for depth. RP Scott Barlow comes in from the San Diego Padres, giving the back end of the rotation a boost, and a possible insurance chip if the team elects to trade Emmanuel Clase, the current closer.

The popular Carlos Carrasco is back in a Cleveland uniform, and he is expected to have a spot in the rotation with Cal Quantrill having been traded to the Colorado Rockies in the offseason. Lucas Giolito left for Boston, where he is dealing with an injury now.

The Guardians are going to be pesky in 2024, but it remains to be seen if they can be championship timber. Let’s analyze the Cleveland Guardians’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Cleveland Guardians World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday, March 26, at 12:31 a.m. ET.

Odds: +6000 (bet $100 to win $6,000)

The Guardians certainly don’t have the longest odds to win the World Series, but they’re nowhere near the favorites to win the championship, either. In fact, the Minnesota Twins (+2100) have the shortest odds in the AL Central to win the World Series.

At +6000, Cleveland has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 1.64% or 60/1 fractional odds.

The Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics are tied for the longest odds at +50000. The Chicago White Sox and Washington Nationals are next at +25000, with the Pittsburgh Pirates at +20000.

The Guardians could challenge for a postseason spot, as the AL Central is one of the weakest divisions in baseball, but a championship run is not expected from this mish-mash roster.

AVOID.

Cleveland Guardians playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +176 | No -230

The Guardians have the pitching to hang with anyone in the American League. From RHP Shane Bieber, RHP Triston McKenzie, RHP Gavin Williams, RHP Tanner Bibee and LHP Logan Allen, to depth options RHP Carlos Carrasco, RHP Xzavion Curry, RHP Jaime Barria and RHP Tyler Beede, the team has the pitching to make a sustained run.

The big question for Cleveland is where will the offense come from? Besides 3B Jose Ramirez, and perhaps 1B Josh Naylor, there isn’t a lot of offensive pop. The team will struggle to score runs, similar to 2023, and there doesn’t appear to be much help on the horizon.

Still, at this price, it’s tempting to take a chance on Cleveland for a playoff run. Play YES (+176) for the Guardians to make the playoffs, as it isn’t as big of a long shot as some might think.

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Cleveland Guardians win total

Over/Under: 79.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

The Guardians have a good chance to exceed their win total by quite a bit if the pitching holds up.

Cleveland could potentially trade Bieber at some point, and still be in relatively good shape. Bieber is the 2nd-highest paid player on the roster, and he could fetch some much-needed offense from a contender looking for pitching.

The Guardians will get to kick around the White Sox and Kansas City Royals, giving them a decent amount of victories from inside the division.

Don’t get carried away, but with Cleveland’s deep pitching, OVER 79.5 WINS (-110) is a decent play.

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To win AL Central Division

Minnesota Twins -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Cleveland Guardians +300 (bet $100 to win $300)
Detroit Tigers +380 (bet $100 to win $380)
Kansas City Royals +1000 (bet $100 to win $1,000)
Chicago White Sox +5000 (bet $100 to win $5,000)

Cleveland has an implied probability of winning the AL Central of 25.00% or 3/1 fractional odds.

The Guardians and the Tigers are giving chase to the defending champion Twins. It isn’t as huge of a gulf as the odds might indicate, however,

Minnesota has a strong offense, and the pitching is decent, but Cleveland can more than hold its own in the pitching department.

For a chance to triple up, GUARDIANS +300 TO WIN THE AL CENTRAL isn’t a bad idea. If Cleveland was in any other division, it wouldn’t have a chance, but this division is a legit 3-horse race. The Twins are good, but they’re not Braves or Dodgers good.

To win American League

Odds: +2100 (bet $100 to win $2,100)

The Guardians are worth a look to make the postseason, most likely as a division winner, as the AL Central isn’t likely to be a 2-playoff spot division. However, let’s not get crazy, as this isn’t a World Series contender.

If Cleveland makes the postseason, it would be decisive underdogs against any of the real contenders in the American League, and the postseason trip wouldn’t last long.

This isn’t a team capable of winning a postseason series, if it even gets there. AVOID.

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Best bets: 2024 Philadelphia Phillies World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Philadelphia Phillies World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Philadelphia Phillies exceeded expectations last year with a 90-72 record, going 41-40 on the road and 49-32 at home in Citizens Bank Park. Philadelphia finished 2nd in the National League East, 6 games ahead of the Miami Marlins and 14 games behind the Atlanta Braves. The Phillies lost in Game 7 of the NLCS to the Diamondbacks to end their season.

The biggest news this offseason for Philadelphia was the team’s resigning of SP Aaron Nola to a 7-year, $172 million contract. Nola, who went 12-9 last season, and SP Zack Wheeler, who went 21-13 and led the team in ERA (3.61) and strikeouts (212), headline the Phillies pitching staff. On the offensive side, 1B Bryce Harper led the team in batting average (.293) while DH Kyle Schwarber hit a team-high 47 home runs.

Let’s analyze the Philadelphia Phillies‘s World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Philadelphia Phillies World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Tuesday, March 26, at 12:09 a.m. ET.

Odds: +1500 (bet $100 to win $1,500)

Philadelphia has the 7th shortest odds to win it all. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350) are favorites, followed by the Atlanta Braves (+450), and Houston Astros (+800).

At +1500, Philadelphia has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 6% or 15/1 fractional odds.

The Oakland A’s, Chicago White Sox, and Colorado Rockies have the longest odds at +50000. The Washington Nationals are next at +25000.

The Phillies are looking to pick up where they left off last season, even with minimal offseason activity. With a top offense and a pitching staff that was made deeper through acquisitions, this team has a chance to make a big impact in 2024.

Backing the PHILLIES (+1500) to win the World Series for a 15-1 payoff is worth a small wager.

Philadelphia Phillies playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -210 | No +170

Back PHILLIES TO MAKE THE PLAYOFFS (-210). While the odds do not present the most value, Philadelphia is a team that is poised to make an impact, not only in its division, but through October as well. They handled the division-rival Braves in the playoffs and are equipped to do it again. Barring any sort of injury, the Phillies should be a shoe-in for the playoffs.

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Philadelphia Phillies win total

Over/Under: 89.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Philadelphia had 90 wins last year which would just cover their win total for this season. It had a great season last year which explains the increased odds for the Over, however, the UNDER 89.5 (-105) is what you should back. While the team should have another strong year, 90 or more wins is a strong gamble for everything to not only go right, but go exceedingly to plan. Philadelphia needs to prove its ability to win on the road to be more confident in reaching that total.

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To win NL East Division

Atlanta Braves -275 (bet $275 to win $100)
Philadelphia Phillies +325 (bet $100 to win $325)
New York Mets +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200)
Miami Marlins +2200 (bet $100 to win $2,200)
Washington Nationals +10000 (bet $100 to win $10,000)

Philadelphia’s implied probability of winning the AL Central is 30.76% or 3.25/1 fractional odds. The Braves are the only threat here, but PHILLIES (+325) is still worth a small wager.

To win National League

Odds: +800 (bet $100 to win $800)

The Phillies have potential to make another big run in 2024. They have the offensive ability and a deep rotation to match up against the top teams. However, due to their lack of offseason moves for a 3rd key starting pitcher, Philly may not have what it takes to win the NL. A small wager is always fun to keep track of and can return a decent profit, but do not go more than that.

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Best bets: 2024 Atlanta Braves World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Atlanta Braves World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Atlanta Braves posted an impressive 104-58 record in the regular season in 2023, but it was tripped up by the National East Division rival Philadelphia Phillies in 4 games in the NLDS. The Braves are back, and they’re among the favorites for the World Series again in 2024.

The Braves didn’t rest in the offseason, making moves to improve an already tremendous roster. The team added OF Adam Duvall via free agency, while trading for veteran LHP Chris Sale to bolster the rotation.

It’s a top-notch roster with All-Stars seemingly oozing from every position. The biggest competition for the Braves in 2024 will be from the Los Angeles Dodgers, as well as between their own ears, especially when it comes to the postseason in the fall. Let’s analyze the Atlanta Braves’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Atlanta Braves World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 11:56 p.m. ET.

Odds: +450 (bet $100 to win $450)

The Braves have the 2nd-shortest odds to win the World Series in the majors, and they have the best odds among all teams in the National League East Division, with the Philadelphia Phillies (+1500) the nearest divisional competitor.

The Los Angeles Dodgers (+320) are the favorites, followed by the Braves, Houston Astros (+700), New York Yankees (+900) and the defending champion Texas Rangers (+1400) and Baltimore Orioles (+1400).

At +450, Atlanta has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 18.18% or 9/2 fractional odds.

The Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics are tied for the longest odds at +50000. The Chicago White Sox and Washington Nationals are next at +25000, with the Pittsburgh Pirates at +20000.

The Braves have an amazing roster, and the addition of a veteran arm like Sale will certainly help in their quest to go deeper into October, while pursuing the World Series Trophy.

Backing the BRAVES (+450) to win the World Series is not a bad strategy, as this team is deep. As long as the team can avoid the injury bug, there is no reason to doubt Atlanta.

Atlanta Braves playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -3500 | No +1060

The Braves are nearly a given to make the playoffs in some way, shape or form. Whether it’s winning the division, or snatching up a Wild Card, you would need to risk 35 times your potential return, and there is never a good reason to bet such a heavy favorite. Even if you have an inordinate amount of money you can tie up until October, it’s just not a recommended betting strategy.

AVOID.

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Atlanta Braves win total

Over/Under: 101.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

The Braves won 104 games last season, and they added Duvall and Sale, and they didn’t really lose anything. This team should be just as good as last season, if not slightly better.

Getting to 102 wins, with just 60 losses, is a little bit scary for bettors. That’s a big number. But Atlanta did it last season, and there is no reason not to believe in this team. The New York Mets should be much better in the division, while the Phillies continue to lurk. But Atlanta will also get to kick around the Miami Marlins and Washington Nationals, 2 teams expected to finish well below .500.

Go OVER 101.5 WINS (-105), and feel confident in doing so.

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To win NL East Division

Atlanta Braves -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
Philadelphia Phillies +280 (bet $100 to win $280)
New York Mets +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)
Miami Marlins +3500 (bet $100 to win $3,500)
Washington Nationals +12000 (bet $100 to win $12,000)

Atlanta has an implied probability of winning the NL East of 73.68% or 5/14 fractional odds.

The Braves are rather heavy favorites, with the Phillies considered the only credible threat to the crown.

Atlanta has won the NL East in 6 consecutive seasons, and there is no reason to believe it will take its foot off the gas and not win it again in 2024. The team made some nice addition, they have an embarrassment of riches at nearly every position, and another triple-digit win total should be in the offing.

However, PASS, as nearly 3 times your return is just a little too much risk, especially tying that kind of money up for several months.

To win National League

Odds: +250 (bet $100 to win $250)

The Braves are a good bet to win the National League, as long as they don’t get mixed up with the Phillies in the postseason again. Philadelphia has been its postseason kryptonite in the past couple of years.

The Dodgers (+165) are the favorites to win the NL, but with the Shohei Ohtani off-field scandal, Los Angeles might have some unwanted distractions. The Braves have a lot less stress and worry, they’re just playing baseball, and focus on the field.

BRAVES TO WIN NATIONAL LEAGUE (+250) is a strong play for the chance to multiply up by 2½ times.

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Best bets: 2024 Minnesota Twins World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024Minnesota Twins World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Minnesota Twins were an under-.500 club early last season, but came on strong in the 2nd half and are the betting favorites to win the AL Central in 2024. Last year’s Twins (87-75) went just 19-27 in 1-run games. They averaged 4.80 runs per game while allowing just 4.07, so its reasonable to project better outcomes in 2024.

Not much was added over the winter, and AL Cy Young runner-up Sonny Gray (2.79 ERA in 184 IP) has moved on, signing as a free agent with the St. Louis Cardinals. But the daily lineup has a talented, youthful core. A lot of unheralded-but-productive bats are back, and the rotation still has RHP Pablo López, RHP Joe Ryan, and RHP Bailey Ober, who all figure as above-average MLB starters.

Let’s analyze the Minnesota Twins’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL/NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Minnesota Twins World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 10:20 p.m. ET.

Odds: +2500 (bet $100 to win $2,500)

The Twins are a top-tier club with this tag. They have the 9th-shortest odds to win the 2024 World Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350), Atlanta Braves (+450), and Houston Astros (+800) have the shortest odds. The Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics have the longest odds; all 3 are pegged at +50000.

At +2500, Minnesota’s implied probability is 3.85% or 25/1 in fractional odds.

With the club winning a Wild Card series over the Toronto Blue Jays last season, it ended a 21-year drought of not advancing in the MLB postseason. With the make-up of this year’s club, winning a division flag is certainly possible, Making a deep run is plausible enough to make the Twins more of a 5% proposition, so peg the MINNESOTA (+2500) play as one with solid leverage.

Minnesota Twins playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -175 | No +145

The YES (-175) call is worth putting into your futures mix. The break-even point on that wager is a 63.64% chance to qualify for October bracket play. With the main contenders in the AL Central being the Detroit Tigers and the Cleveland Guardians who have their share of question marks, Minnesota has a leg up worthy of a higher percentage expectation.

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Minnesota Twins win total

Over/Under: 86.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

The Twins clobbered opposing pitchers to the tune of an .809 OPS after the All-Star break last season. Some of that was due to getting some banged-up players back in the batting order. But Minnesota does have some players to be regarded as a bit fragile. So, that attrition may well be something the 2024 club deals with as well.

The team can win 90-plus games, but a lot of reputable models peg them in the 85-to-87 range. With top-of-the-rotation upside, the Twins profile as a club that can win 86 games and be built to win October series.

PASS on the total.

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To win AL Central Division

Minnesota Twins -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Detroit Tigers +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
Cleveland Guardians +320 (bet $100 to win $320)
Kansas City Royals +900 (bet $100 to win $900)
Chicago White Sox +5000 (bet $100 to win $5,000)

Minnesota’s implied probability of winning the AL Central is 55.56% or 4/5 fractional odds. Combining the Guardians and Tigers into something in the 35% range is reasonable, so Minnesota is a solid value here.

BACK THE TWINS (-125) to take the flag in the AL Central.

To win American League

Odds: +1000 (bet $100 to win $1,000)

The landscape of the AL certainly includes the Astros and Yankees and likely another club from the AL East. Figure Minnesota as a dangerous 85-to-88-win club that has value with this return,

BACK MINNESOTA (+1000).

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Best bets: 2024 Miami Marlins World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Miami Marlins World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Miami Marlins improved on their 69-win 2022 season last year, finishing 84-78 and clinching a postseason berth for the 1st time since 2020. They were swept by the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL Wild Card Series and were outscored 11-2 in 2 games.

Miami is projected to be slightly worse after its disappointing offseason. It lost SS Garrett Hampson, RHP David Robertson, and DH Jorge Soler, and it brought in SS Tim Anderson, C Christian Bethancourt, and INF Vidal Bruján. Let’s analyze the Miami Marlins’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Miami Marlins World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 10:09 p.m. ET.

Odds: +9000 (bet $100 to win $9,000)

Miami is tied with the Milwaukee Brewers for the 8th-longest odds to win it all.

The Oakland Athletics (+50000), Colorado Rockies (+50000), Washington Nationals (+25000), and Chicago White Sox (+25000) are at the bottom of the barrell, followed by the Pittsburgh Pirates (+20000), Los Angeles Angeles (+18000), and Kansas City Royals (+15000).

The favorites to win the World Series are the Los Angeles Dodgers (+320), Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+700), and New York Yankees (+900).

At +9000, Miami has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 1.1%.

I have no confidence in this Miami squad — especially with RHP Sandy Alcántara out for the season after undergoing Tommy John surgery — to win it all.

PASS.

Miami Marlins playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +360 | No -530

In a tough division like the NL East, Miami’s chances of making the playoffs don’t look good, especially after getting slightly worse in the winter. GM Kim Ng resigned instead of being demoted, and the Marlins ended up having 1 of the least active off-seasons in MLB.

While the Marlins’ rotation still holds up with LHP Jesús Luzardo and RHP Eury Pérez, the playoffs will likely be out of the picture this season unless the Phillies have a complete meltdown.

PASS. The Marlins won’t make the postseason, but the No (-530) line is too pricey.

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Miami Marlins win total

Over/Under: 77.5 (O: -102 | U: -120)

This number is tricky because while the Marlins should win fewer games, their rotation is still solid, and former No. 3 overall pick RHP Max Meyer could make it even more intimidating at some point this season.

The issue with the Marlins last season — which doesn’t look like it was solved in the winter — was their lineup scoring an NL-worst 666 runs. Miami fared well in close games last year, earning an MLB-record 12-0 start in 1-run games, but that luck probably doesn’t carry over this time around.

BET UNDER 77.5 (-120).

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To win NL East Division

Atlanta Braves -280 (bet $280 to win $100)
Philadelphia Phillies +280 (bet $100 to win $280)
New York Mets +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)
Miami Marlins +3500 (bet $100 to win $3,500)
Washington Nationals +12000 (bet $100 to win $12,000)

Miami’s implied probability of winning the NL East is 2.78%. If you’re betting the Marlins to win the division, you’re pretty much playing a derivative of the Braves and Phillies simultaneously self-destructing. If that’s the case, you’d be better off playing the Unders on their win totals.

PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +4500 (bet $100 to win $4,500)

Maybe if Alcántara were healthy, I could see the Marlins going on a deep run led by their rotation. However, based on the current reality, Miami doesn’t stand a chance in a league with the Dodgers (+165) and Braves (+250), the 2 favorites to win the pennant.

PASS.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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Best bets: 2024 Chicago White Sox World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Chicago White Sox World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The 2023 Chicago White Sox got off to a shaky start last season, going 8-21 over their first 29 games. The Pale Hose righted the ship with over-.500 play in May and June, but then the wheels came off in the 2nd half. From July 1-on, Chicago went 25-53 (.321).

The ’23 White Sox finished 61-101 (.377), placing 4th in the AL Central. President Ken Williams and Senior VP and GM Rick Hahn were let go in August, and that ushered in what is now a substantial rebuild for this franchise. And that rebuild could mean trading away veterans like OF Luis Robert Jr., a bright-spot returnee who hit 38 home runs and logged a 5.0 WAR (FanGraphs) last season.

Let’s analyze the Chicago White Sox’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Chicago White Sox World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 2 p.m. ET.

Odds: +50000 (bet $100 to win $50,000)

At +50000, Chicago has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 0.2% or 500/1 fractional odds.

The White Sox, Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics are all tied for the longest odds on the board; all 3 are pegged at +50000. (The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350), Atlanta Braves (+450), and Houston Astros (+800) have the shortest odds.)

With the mode Chicago figures to be in, that return would barely be acceptable on a make-the-playoffs wager. A sell-off is underway: veteran RHP Dylan Cease was traded March 13, and pieces with value like Robert and others will essentially be auditioning for the best return the ChiSox can get in young talent that can be signed long-term.

PASS.

Chicago White Sox playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +3000 | No -10000

AVOID. The value here is solely with the shop that books the prices.

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Chicago White Sox win total

Over/Under: 60.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

In what is mostly an exercise in the flow of how many games bad teams tend to lose and how mostly mediocre the AL Central figures to be, this offering is worth a line watch at the very least. The OVER 60.5 (-115) figures to be worth smaller futures play than you might normally have on the board. An evenly-priced (-110) total of 59.5 would be worth full-fledged action.

Chicago’s average run differential last season was -1.23 runs. Two years ago, 7 MLB clubs filed differentials of -1.0 or worse. Five of those clubs won 62-or-more games.

There are enough games against the Cleveland Guardians, Detroit Tigers and Kansas City Royals, that a couple of months of ball could be played at around a .425 clip. Even 6 games against fellow bottom-dweller Oakland should be accounted for.

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To win AL Central Division

Minnesota Twins -125 (bet $125 to win $100)
Detroit Tigers +135 (bet $100 to win $135)
Cleveland Guardians +320 (bet $100 to win $320)
Kansas City Royals +900 (bet $100 to win $900)
Chicago White Sox +5000 (bet $100 to win $5,000)

PASS. The White Sox themselves are taking a pass on winning this division this year. So should we.

To win American League

Odds: +25000 (bet $100 to win $25,000)

AVOID. Again, this club will cast an eye on building for the future and possibly on working toward a new ballpark. Its attentions are on compiling youthful talent, not on competing.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

Additional MLB coverage:
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Best bets: 2024 Chicago Cubs World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Chicago Cubs World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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With 1B/OF Cody Bellinger leading the way, the 2023 Chicago Cubs scored 819 runs, went 83-79 (.512) and placed 2nd in the NL Central. Scoring 5.06 runs per game while allowing 4.46 and going 21-24 in 1-run games, it’s likely the Cubs underplayed their run differential by a fair amount. Chicago’s National League entry may indeed have been more of a 90-win team.

With Bellinger, who banged out an .881 OPS and bat-heavy 4.0 WAR (FanGraphs), back after testing the market in free agency and with few key roster losses, the Cubs are the favorites in the NL Central this season. Let’s analyze the Chicago Cubs’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Chicago Cubs World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 1:41 p.m. ET.

Odds: +3000 (bet $100 to win $3,000)

At +3000, Chicago has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 3.23% or 30/1 fractional odds.

The Cubs have “1st division” odds to win the World Series: they are in the top half of the odds listings, coming in at 11th-shortest. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350), Atlanta Braves (+450), and Houston Astros (+800) have the shortest odds. The Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics have the longest odds; all 3 are pegged at +50000.

STEER CLEAR on this proposition. In what figures as a highly competitive NL Central, the Cubs are certainly in the mix. But just in the mix, and that mix spills out into a broader National League pennant race dominated by the Braves and Dodgers.

Chicago Cubs playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -125 | No +105

The Yes play is too aggressive. It requires a 55.56% probability to break even, and that’s too optimistic for a club with enough pitching question marks and which may have been out too far over its analytic skis with its run production a year ago.

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Chicago Cubs win total

Over/Under: 84.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Expectations of a 3-horse race, or something close to it, with the St. Louis Cardinals, Cubs and Cincinnati Reds spreading out wins makes the Under a slight lean here.

The Chicago offense was potent a year ago but may be due for some slight regression. The run scoring was certainly added by a .322 batting average on balls in play with runners in scoring position and a .312 BABIB in high-leverage situations. The Cubs’ slugging mark was not fully supported by advanced exit-velocity metrics.

A PASS is suggested, but look to leverage an Under play if the Chicago total climbs to 85.5.

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To win NL East Division

St. Louis Cardinals +175 (bet $100 to win $175)
Chicago Cubs +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Cincinnati Reds +340 (bet $100 to win $340)
Milwaukee Brewers +750 (bet $100 to win $750)
Pittsburgh Pirates +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)

Chicago’s implied probability of winning the NL Central is 33.33% or 2/1 fractional odds. Peg the Cubs as more of a 25-30% possibility to come out on top in this division. PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +1600 (bet $100 to win $1,600)

Not enough return here. Up and down, the public’s prognosis for this ballclub is just a tad aggressive. Chicago winning 82-86 games and being a Wild Card contender would not be a surprise. But coming up short at or under-.500 would not be off the radar at all.

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Best bets: 2024 St. Louis Cardinals World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 St. Louis Cardinals World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The St. Louis Cardinals are coming off their worst season since 1990 with a 71-91 finish. Their pitching staff resembled one that took part in the Home Run Derby, with a 5.08 starter’s ERA (26th), 4.47 relievers ERA (23rd), 1,215 strikeouts (29th), 22.8% whiff rate (29th) and 26.2% chase rate (29th).

The Cards were swift to address those needs in the offseason, signing RHP Sonny Gray, RHP Lance Lynn and RHP Kyle Gibson to supplement their rotation. Gray suffered a hamstring injury in camp and will start the season on the IL. LHP Zack Thompson will step in for his spot alongside RHP Miles Mikolas and LHP Steven Matz. The Redbirds also added to their pen by acquiring RHP Andrew Kittredge, RHP Riley O’Brien and signing RHP Keynan Middleton. The latter will open the season on the IL as well with a forearm strain.

Let’s analyze the St. Louis Cardinals’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

St. Louis Cardinals World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday, March 25, at 12:21 p.m. ET.

Odds: +3500 (bet $100 to win $3,500)

The Cards are tied for 12th-shortest odds to win the World Series with the Tampa Bay Rays. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350), Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+800), New York Yankees (+900) and Baltimore Orioles (+1300) make up the top 5.

The Chicago White Sox, Colorado Rockies and Oakland Athletics are tied for the longest odds at +50000.

PASS.

This team has enough talent to win one of the weakest divisions in baseball, but they don’t have enough high-end pitching to miss bats in order to compete in October.

St. Louis Cardinals playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -115 | No -105

Do NOT bet this. There is likely only going to be 1 team from the NL Central in the playoffs, and that will come via winning the division. So go that route for a no-brainer of a payout upgrade.

PASS.

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St. Louis Cardinals win total

Over/Under: 85.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

PECOTA projections have the Cards at 84.6 wins this season. So this is a tight number in the books’ favor.

Here’s what you do. The Cardinals have a brutal opening week with 4 at the Dodgers and 3 at the San Diego Padres. They follow that up with series against the Miami Marlins, Philadelphia Phillies and Arizona Diamondbacks. They are likely to start the season slowly, which should reduce this number a win or 2. That’s where you strike.

PASS.

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To win NL Central Division

St. Louis Cardinals +175 (bet $100 to win $175)
Chicago Cubs +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Cincinnati Reds +350 (bet $100 to win $350)
Milwaukee Brewers +650 (bet $100 to win $650)
Pittsburgh Pirates +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)

St. Louis has high-end talent in 3B Nolan Arenado, 1B Paul Goldschmidt and C Willson Contreras. It’s the young guys that could take a huge step forward this year like OF Jordan Walker, OF Lars Nootbaar and SS Masyn Winn. Prospect OF Victor Scott III also had a great spring but will begin the season at Triple-A before likely making his debut at some point this season. And 2B Thomas Saggese also turned heads hitting .304 with a HR and 11 RBI in spring.

This is the best bet on the board because the division is weak. The Brewers traded pieces off, and the Cubs only added a new manager and a piece or 2. It’s by no means a given, but for the potential payout, this is your best bet: CARDINALS TO WIN THE DIVISION +175.

To win National League

Odds: +1600 (bet $100 to win $1,600)

A lot can happen over 162 games, but this roster is built to make it to October but not necessarily thrive in October. They can slug their way into the dance, but pitchers that miss bats are what wins in the dance. They still have too much of a “pitch to contact” approach, but the defense will be better with Winn at short for a full season and a healthier Arenado at third.

Making a wager here is like setting your wager ablaze and hoping it multiplies.

PASS

If you want to take a shot, take one on MASYN WINN TO WIN NL GOLD GLOVE AT SHORTSTOP (+1600). This kid has the range and maybe the best arm in the league. That electric arm could get him into trouble with errors, but his range could pad his defensive runs saved in order to give him a shot.

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For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

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