2024 MLB World Series odds MLB futures pennant division odds wins total odds preseason projections picks and predictions – Page 2

Best bets: 2024 Toronto Blue Jays World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Toronto Blue Jays World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Toronto Blue Jays have continued to disappoint Canadian baseball fans and bettors alike. It was just 2 years ago that the Blue Jays had the 2nd-best preseason odds to win it all, but they were eventually swept in the AL Wild Card Series. They followed up that performance by, once again, getting swept in the Wild Card after going 89-73 in 2023.

Toronto’s mediocre offseason moves haven’t provided fans with much hope either. It lost DH Brandon Belt, 3B Matt Chapman, and RHP Jordan Hicks, and it added 3B Isiah Kiner-Falefa, DH Justin Turner, and DH Daniel Vogelbach. Let’s analyze the Toronto Blue Jays’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Toronto Blue Jays 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 12:14 p.m. ET.

Odds: +1800 (bet $100 to win $1,800)

Toronto has the 8th-shortest odds to win the World Series.

The Los Angeles Dodgers (+320) are the favorites, followed by the Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+700), and New York Yankees (+900). The 3 teams immediately ahead of the Blue Jays are the Baltimore Orioles (+1400), Texas Rangers (+1400), and Philadelphia Phillies (+1500).

At +1800, Toronto has an implied probability of winning it all of 5.26%.

I’m skeptical that the Blue Jays can even win a series, let alone the World Series.

PASS.

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Toronto Blue Jays playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -154 | No +120

There’s no value on either side of this market with the way that it’s priced.

Do I believe the Blue Jays will make the playoffs? Yes because they have done it in back-to-back seasons. Do I want to risk $154 to win $100? Of course not, but I also don’t wan’t to bet against them and get just +120 on the return.

This market has a hold of 5.74%, compared to the standard 4.55% when both sides are -110.

PASS.

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Toronto Blue Jays win total

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

This line makes complete sense.

The Blue Jays won 89 games last season and are expected to be slightly worse after losing Belt and Chapman.

However, I do see a scenario where SS Bo Bichette continues to improve and 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr. bounces back after a somewhat disappointing season. The Blue Jays were 4th in MLB in team ERA last year, so they definitely have a strength they can lean on to win games.

Maybe the market is slightly overreacting to the lack of any big-name signings in the winter.

BET OVER 86.5 (-115).

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To win AL East Division

New York Yankees +165 (bet $100 to win $165)
Baltimore Orioles +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Toronto Blue Jays +380 (bet $100 to win $380)
Tampa Bay Rays +550 (bet $100 to win $550)
Boston Red Sox +1900 (bet $100 to win $1,900)

Toronto’s implied probability of winning the AL East is 20.83%. The last time the Blue Jays won this division was 2015. The Yankees and Orioles just have significantly better rosters, and this division is a challenge every year for Toronto.

PASS.

To win American League

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

The Blue Jays have the 7th-shortest odds to win the American League.

The Astros (+360) are the favorites, followed by the Yankees (+450), Orioles (+650), and Rangers (+650). The Twins and Mariners (both +900) are directly ahead of Toronto.

I would be impressed if Toronto made the AL Wild Card Series and didn’t get swept for a 3rd straight season. Unfortunately, winning the American League and going to the World Series is out of the question for this version of the Blue Jays.

PASS.

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Best bets: 2024 Boston Red Sox World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Boston Red Sox struggled last season and failed to meet expectations while missing the playoffs. They finished 78-84, and their road record was the same as their record at home (39-42). They finished 5th in the AL East and were the only team in the division with a losing record.

Veteran 3B Rafael Devers led the Red Sox offense with 33 home runs, 100 runs batted in, and 157 hits while up-and-coming rookie LF Masataka Yoshida led the team with a .289 batting average that ranked him 16th best in MLB. Boston saw a major increase in SP Brayan Bello‘s production in his 2nd year in the league, with his win count jumping from just 2 in his rookie season to 12 last year to lead the team. Let’s analyze the Boston Red Sox’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Boston Red 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 10:50 a.m. ET.

Odds: +6600 (bet $100 to win $6600)

Boston is tied for the 19th-shortest odds to win it all with the Cleveland Guardians. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+350) are favorites to win it all, followed by the Atlanta Braves (+450), the Houston Astros (+800), and the New York Yankees (+900).

At +6600, Boston has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 1.49% or 66/1 fractional odds. While the Red Sox made some trades and off-season acquisitions, like moving LHP Chris Sale to Atlanta for INF Vaughn Grissom, they were not involved in any blockbuster deals that would greatly increase their results from last season. For that reason, PASS on the Sox taking it all this year.

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

Boston Red Sox playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +260 | No -350

While the Red Sox have not made any monumental moves on the field, they have made changes to their front office that could impact their play. They hired a new chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, who was a World Series champion and former Chicago Cubs assistant GM. Whether his impact will be immediate or over the course of a season or 2, it is clear Boston is trending in the right direction.

With Boston making minimal offseason moves on the field after finishing last in its division, however, it may only be worth a small margin to sprinkle them getting into the playoffs.

Make a small wager on YES (+260).

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Boston Red Sox win total

Over/Under: 75.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

With the rest of the division getting better and the Red Sox making minimal traction, they rightfully have a low projected win total. Boston is in a rebuilding phase and looking how to get better long-term, which will impact their 2024 season. While it is always possible to shock the world, betting UNDER 75.5 WINS (-115) is the best play here.

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To win AL East Division

Baltimore Orioles +180 (bet $100 to win $180)
New York Yankees +180 (bet $100 to win $180)
Toronto Blue Jays +400 (bet $100 to win $400)
Tampa Bay Rays +575 (bet $100 to win $575)
Boston Red Sox +2000 (bet $100 to win $2,000)

Bostons’s implied probability of winning the AL East is 4.76% or 20/1 fractional odds. Not finishing in last place again will be a highlight for the Red Sox. PASS.

To win American League

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

Boston is a historical franchise with a history of winning. Unfortunately for the fans, the Red Sox are not going to be contenders until they make more trades and develop their youngsters. The AL is packed with talent this season, and the Red Sox are on the outside looking in, hence their +3000 odds. While the Red Sox have short-term talent and could make runs throughout the season, do not expect to see them leading the pack come October.

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Best bets: 2024 Colorado Rockies World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Colorado Rockies have nowhere to look but up in 2024 following the worst season in franchise history, going 59-103 in a year when they hoped to improve on their 68-win 2022 season.

Colorado appears committed to building its success behind a youth movement. It did add RHP Cal Quantrill via trade and signed RHP Dakota Hudson, adding talent to the rotation. After that, it will rely on the players already in the organization and then hope that 3B Kris Bryant can be available. He has played in only 122 games in 2 seasons in Colorado. Let’s analyze the Colorado Rockies’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Colorado Rockies 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 9:40 a.m. ET.

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

The Rockies are tied with the Oakland Athletics with the longest odds in baseball to win the World Series, with only 0.2% implied odds or 500/1 fractional odds of them winning a championship.

They have not had a winning record in the last 5 seasons. Going from losing over 100 games to a title is not in the cards with this team.

The favorites are the Los Angeles Dodgers (+320), Atlanta Braves (+450) and Houston Astros (+700).

PASS.

Colorado Rockies playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +5500 | No -100000

At -100000 odds, the Rockies have 99.9% implied odds of not making the playoffs.

Again, they have not had a winning record since 2018. They lost 103 games last season and did not make any significant improvement to the roster.

Betting them to not make the playoffs will likely hit, but you only win $0.10 for every $100 wagered. It’s not worth your time.

PASS.

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Colorado Rockies win total

Over/Under: 59.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Excluding the strike-shortened 1994 season and the 2020 pandemic season, the only year in Colorado’s history in which it won fewer than 60 games was last season.

It has been unfortunate with pitching injuries. It has nowhere to go but up.

BET OVER 59.5 (-105).

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To win NL West Division

Los Angeles Dodgers -600 (bet $600 to win $100)
San Diego Padres +1100 (bet $100 to win $1,100)
Arizona Diamondbacks (bet $100 to win $1,100)
San Francisco Giants +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200)
Colorado Rockies +20000 (bet $100 to win $20,000)

The Rockies aren’t anywhere near a conversation about winning the NL West. The 1st question is whether they can avoid losing 100 games. They only have 0.5% implied odds of winning the division.

The Dodgers have won the division 3 straight years and 11 of the last 12 seasons. They have won 100 or more games in 3 straight seasons and 5 of the last 7. They added the best player in the planet in Shohei Ohtani.

A successful season for Colorado is staying out of last place.

PASS.

To win National League

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

The Rockies have 0.5% implied odds of winning the National League pennant.

Again, the conversation about the Rockies in 2024 is not about whether or not they will be good. It is about whether or not they can simply be better than last season. Even their projected win total is set at such they could lose 100 games again.

They have the longest odds in the National League to win the pennant.

PASS.

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Best bets: 2024 Arizona Diamondbacks World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Arizona Diamondbacks shocked all of Major League Baseball last season starting hot, fading after the All-Star break, barely making the playoffs, and then winning the National League pennant before losing the World Series. They hope to take that season and turn it into something repeatable and sustainable in 2024.

In the offseason, they added LHP Eduardo Rodriguez to the starting rotation to stabilize things behind RHP Zac Gallen and RHP Merrill Kelly. They re-signed LF Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and added 3B Eugenio Suarez and DH Joc Pederson. Closer Paul Sewald, acquired at the trade deadline, returns. Oh, and they will return OF Corbin Carroll after winning NL Rookie of the Year. Let’s analyze the Arizona Diamodbacks’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and NL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Arizona Diamondbacks 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 9 a.m. ET.

Odds: +4000 (bet $100 to win $4,000)

At +4000 odds, they have 2.44% implied odds of winning the World Series or 40/1 fractional odds. They have longer odds than 13 other teams despite making it to the World Series last season.

The favorites are the Los Angeles Dodgers at +320, the Atlanta Braves at +450 and Houston Astros at +700. The Oakland Athletics and Colorado Rockies have the longest odds in all of baseball at +50000.

The Diamondbacks were an absolute surprise last season but perhaps should not have been after their 1st half of last season, when they led the NL West and were 1 of the NL’s best teams through June.

They had 2 aces in Gallen and Kelly and now have added Rodriguez. They added power with Pederson and Suarez and play great defense.

After the Diamondbacks made it to the World Series a season ago, it is not something impossible to see happening, especially with an improved roster.

With the big potential payout, backing the DIAMONDBACKS (+4000) with a small wager isn’t a terrible thing.

Arizona Diamondbacks playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +124 | No -158

Entering last year, it was a good bet to back them for the playoffs, and they paid off. The Dodgers, with the billion dollars committed to the new additions on the roster and their long run of winning, are still the class of the NL West, but the Diamondbacks will definitely be in the mix for a Wild Card berth again.

BET DIAMONDBACKS YES TO MAKE PLAYOFFS (+124).

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Arizona Diamondbacks win total

Over/Under: 83.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Arizona won 84 games in the regular season, and that was after a midseason collapse. At one point, it was 50-35 and leading the NL West in July. It collapsed for a month and a half, going 8-25 from July 1 to Aug. 11.

But its postseason run showed it was more like the 1st half of the season than the 2nd half.

Fangraphs projects it to win between 84 and 88 games, which is above the projected win total for this bet.

BET OVER 83.5 (-105).

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To win NL West Division

Los Angeles Dodgers -600 (bet $600 to win $100)
San Diego Padres +1100 (bet $100 to win $1,100)
Arizona Diamondbacks (bet $100 to win $1,100)
San Francisco Giants +1200 (bet $100 to win $1,200)
Colorado Rockies +20000 (bet $100 to win $20,000)

Even with Arizona’s season in 2023, its playoff series win over the Dodgers, and its roster and rotation improvements, this division is still run by the L.A.

Even after a World Series appearance, Arizona’s road back is through the Wild Card.

PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +1800 (bet $100 to win $1,800)

The Diamondbacks’ run to the World Series means you have to consider them. Five teams have shorter odds than they do. They only have 5.26% implied odds of winning the National League, but they did it a year ago and got better in the offseason.

That doesn’t guarantee anything, but it does make it at least worth considering.

Backing the DIAMONDBACKS (+1800) with a small wager is profitable enough with a slightly reasonable chance of it happening.

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Best bets: 2024 Washington Nationals World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Washington Nationals finished last in the NL East for the 4th straight year in 2023. They did improve their win total from 55 in 2022 to 71 in 2023. The young Washington team started to gel after the All-Star break of 2023, finishing 1 game under .500 (35-36).

The exodus of marquee players has been well documented since the Nationals won the World Series in 2019. The departures of P Max Scherzer, SS Trea Turner, 3B Anthony Rendon, and OF Juan Soto have all brought in a new crop of young talented players like RHP Josiah Gray, LHP MacKenzie Gore, LHP DJ Herz, C Keibert Ruiz and SS CJ Abrams.

What’s new in 2024?

Washington was quiet during the off-season as their plans are focused on the long term. They did make a few free agent moves to fill holes on their active roster. The Nationals welcomed big thumper 1B/OF Joey Gallo, a veteran arm RHP Dylan Floro and former top prospect looking for a 2nd chance 3B/OF Nick Senzel.

There are minimal expectations in 2024 for this team. Let’s analyze the Washington Nationals’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Washington Nationals World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday, March 24 at 8:30 p.m. ET.

Odds: +25000 (bet $100 to win $2,5000)

The Nationals are tied with the White Sox for the 3rd longest odds to win it all. While this team is improving, I don’t see a postseason run in the cards for them this season, but maybe in the next 2-3 years.

PASS.

Washington Nationals playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +17000 | No -10000

The Nationals have an uphill to climb to make the playoffs being in the same division as the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies, who are both World Series favorites. They would have to hope for a Wild Card spot, but those will also be tough to come by with teams like the San Diego Padres, New York Mets, Chicago Cubs and Arizona Diamondbacks fighting for positions in the postseason.

PASS.

Washington Nationals win total

Over/Under: 66.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

This number is completely attainable by this squad. The Nationals bring back almost all of their core from last season that won 71 games, and they made a few pick ups to help fill in the gaps. We will also see a few top prospects make an impact this season like SP Cade Cavali (returning from Tommy John), OF Dylan Crews (#2 overall pick in 2023 MLB Draft), and OF James Wood (key piece in Soto trade). This is a bet you should jump on now before the line moves or the odds adjust.

BET OVER 66.5 (-105).

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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 $1300)
Miami Marlins +3500 (bet $100 to win $3,500)
Washington Nationals +12000 (bet $100 to win $12,000)

The Atlanta Braves are the class of this division with the Phillies nipping at their heels. The Mets are the Mets and the Marlins surprised everyone by winning 84 games last season. I know it’s always tempting to take a longshot bet with those odds, but there is just too much for the Nationals to overcome for them to win this division. The only way they make the playoffs is via the Wild Card.

PASS.

To win National League

Odds: +12000 (bet $100 to win $12000)

There’s a reason why this team has the 2nd-longest odds to win the NL pennant. There is no real marquee name in the lineup or rotation to scare the opponent, just a lot of potential. The organization is still couple of years away from really competing.

Washington is taking a similar route that their neighbors in Baltimore did, building through the farm system and a few key free agents. The Orioles have arrived, but the Nationals still need more maturing. There’s no way you can make this bet unless you really just want to gamble.

PASS.

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Best bets: 2024 Detroit Tigers World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Detroit Tigers finished with a 78-84 record in 2023, which was a 12-win improvement on their 2022 mark (66-96). Their run differential also took a step forward, from -156 in 2022 to -79 last season.

The team made a few interesting moves over the winter, especially on the pitching side, as they added RHP Kenta Maeda and RHP Jack Flaherty. They also made a couple of under-the-radar moves, adding 3B Gio Urshela and OF Mark Canha. Let’s analyze the Detroit Tigers World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Detroit Tigers World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday, March 24, at 11:53 p.m. ET.

Odds: +6600 (bet $100 to win $6,600)

Detroit is tied with Cleveland and Boston for the 10th longest odds to win it all in 2024. At +6600, the implied win probability for the Tigers is 1.49%.

Just 4 AL teams have longer odds to win the World Series — the Kansas City Royals (+15000), Los Angeles Angels (+20000), Chicago White Sox (+50000), and Oakland Athletics (+50000).

Though the Tigers made strides in 2023, they have a long way to go to compete for a World Series title. PASS on this line.

Detroit Tigers playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +180 | No -225

LHP Tarik Skubal gives the team a solid arm at the top of the rotation, though it remains to be seen how heavy of a workload he can handle. There are health and/or performance questions throughout the rest of the rotation and getting over the hump and into the playoffs will be a tall task. Realistically, they are probably a couple years away from October baseball. Bet NO -225 on Detroit making the playoffs.

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Detroit Tigers win total

Over/Under: 81.5 (O: +100 | U: -120)

The Detroit offense was woeful in 2023, as the 661 runs they scored ranked 3rd-worst in the majors. There is some young talent on hand, with 2B Colt Keith set to debut, and OF Parker Meadows, OF Riley Greene, and 1B Spencer Torkelson are each capable of making a significant impact.

The team is likely to score more runs in 2024, but this offense will still be well below average. Odds are, they will fall short of a .500 record, so side with UNDER 81.5 (-120).

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To win AL Central Division

Minnesota Twins -125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Detroit Tigers +350 (bet $100 to win $350)
Cleveland Guardians +375 (bet $100 to win $375)
Kansas City Royals +900 (bet $100 to win $900)
Chicago White Sox +5000 (bet $100 to win $5,000)

Minnesota won 87 games in 2023, finishing 9 games ahead of the 2nd-place Tigers in the division and 11 games clear of Cleveland. The Twins look like the team to beat once again. If anyone makes a run at the division, it is just as likely to be Cleveland as Detroit, given the upside in the Guardian rotation.

Detroit’s implied probability of winning the AL Central is 22.22%. It’s not out of the question that Detroit wins this weak division, but there’s just not enough value here so PASS.

To win American League

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

The organization is blessed with a lot of young talent, including the position players listed above and RHP Jackson Jobe, one of the top pitching prospects in the game. There are also some veterans on the roster who could surprise with a rebound season, including Flaherty, SS Javier Báez, and to a lesser extent, C Carson Kelly.

However, this is a team with a long streak of losing seasons, and a lot would have to go right for Detroit to turn into contenders this season. Even with the high odds, it is best to look for other long shots to invest in. PASS.

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Best bets: 2024 Tampa Bay Rays World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 Tampa Bay Rays World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The Tampa Bay Rays have won at least 86 games each non-Covid season since 2018, and they have made the MLB postseason in 5 straight years. In 2023, the Rays overcame a slew of injuries to win 99 games. But for a 2nd straight October, Tampa Bay was ousted 2-0 in a Wild Card series.

In 2024, the Rays will have to overcome key players being out again. As usual for this franchise, not much has been added to the cupboard.

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

Tampa Bay Rays World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday, March 24, at 11:34 p.m. ET.

Odds: +3500 (bet $100 to win $3500)

Tampa is in the middle of the pack at +3500. 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 +3500, the Rays have an implied probability of winning the World Series of 2.78% or 35/1 fractional odds.

Albeit with a slight edge, this return does indeed have a value edge to it, especially for a franchise that has routinely outperformed expected wins over the last 5-6 years.

Take the RAYS (+3500) as a value play in World Series futures.

Tampa Bay Rays playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +120 | No -145

The AL East could well send 3 teams to the postseason bracket. With the Rays being a solid bet to be in that mix, the return here is strong.

BACK THE RAYS (+120).

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Tampa Bay Rays win total

Over/Under: 85.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

The Rays added almost nothing in free agency. And they will for stretches be without the services of SS Wander Franco (likely to be placed on the restricted list or administrative leave) LHP Shane McClanahan (recovering from Tommy John surgery), RHP Drew Rasmussen (elbow, out until late season) and LHP Jeffrey Springs (recovering from Tommy John surgery).

But Tampa Bay does have perhaps better talent expected to take the field than what many bettors suspect. On offense, the Rays ranked in the top 5 in nearly every important offensive category. They were 6th in HRs. And Tampa pitching clocked a 3.87 ERA, a figure tied for 5th. On FanGraphs, the Rays’ expected Fielder Independent Pitching mark was a league-best 3.84. Tampa’s team defense ranked around league-average.

With unheralded returning production, valuable bench and relief pieces, and high-end prospects on the cusp, the Rays prospects for holding things together until the pitching comes back are decent. And maybe what was there last year was better than what showed on the surface, too. The club appeared to underplay its 5.31 runs per game, and 4.10 runs allowed. A 22-25 mark in 1-run games didn’t help.

So, peg the OVER 85.5 (-105) as being worthy of an account log-in.

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To win AL East Division

New York Yankees +175 (bet $100 to win $175)
Baltimore Orioles +200 (bet $100 to win $200)
Toronto Blue Jays +475 (bet $100 to win $475)
Tampa Bay Rays +700 (bet $100 to win $700)
Boston Red Sox +1300 (bet $100 to win $1,300)

Figure on the potential for the Rays to be more included in a 2- or 3-way race that what shows on these prices. And that makes for leverage with a TAMPA BAY (+700) play.

To win American League

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

If you’re sprinkling undervalued teams all the way across. finish the job with this one. As with the Series bet, there is just enough return value here. BACK THE RAYS (+1500).

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Best bets: 2024 Texas Rangers World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The Texas Rangers didn’t let their +3500 preseason odds of winning it all get in their way last year. They made quick work of the Arizona Diamondbacks, winning in 5 games, and SS Corey Seager took home his 2nd World Series MVP.

The Rangers had a relatively quiet offseason, adding the likes of C Andrew Knizner, RHP Tyler Mahle, RHP David Robertson, and RHP Kirby Yates. It will be interesting to see if this team was just a flash in the pan or if Texas can replicate last season’s success. Let’s analyze the Texas Rangers’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Texas Rangers World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday, March 24, at 10:59 p.m. ET.

Odds: +1400 (bet $100 to win $1,400)

Texas is tied with the Baltimore Orioles for the 5th-shortest odds to win the World Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+320) are the favorites, followed by the Atlanta Braves (+450), Houston Astros (+700) and New York Yankees (+900).

At +1400, Texas has an implied probability of winning it all of 6.67%, and to be profitable, you would only have to hit bets at these odds once every 14 times.

However, the last time a team won the World Series in back-to-back seasons was the Yankees’ 3-peat from 1998-2000.

The Rangers don’t feel like a dynasty, and at +1400, you’re getting short-changed. PASS.

Texas Rangers playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -184 | No +142

In a tough division like the AL West, there’s a decent chance that the Rangers could miss the playoffs.

Seager is coming off a sports hernia surgery, and he may not be good for 30-plus home runs this time around. RHP Jacob deGrom isn’t expected to return from Tommy John surgery until August, and RHP Max Scherzer may not be as dominant after recovering from back surgery.

I’m not saying it’s guaranteed that the Rangers will let down after winning as huge underdogs last year, but them missing the playoffs shouldn’t pay out at such a high rate.

BET NO (+142).

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Texas Rangers win total

Over/Under: 88.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

The Rangers are expected to start slow, and we can see that is already baked into the line. They have multiple stars coming back from injury, and defending champions may be somewhat complacent early in the season.

Texas went 90-72 last season and are bringing back pretty much the same team, but with less hunger. However, this number was 89.5 back in January, and there is likely minimal value left after it got bet down in the offseason.

LEAN UNDER 88.5 (-112).

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To win AL West Division

Houston Astros -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Texas Rangers +210 (bet $100 to win $210)
Seattle Mariners +300 (bet $100 to win $300)
Los Angeles Angels +4500 (bet $100 to win $4,500)
Oakland Athletics +25000 (bet $100 to win $25,000)

Texas’ implied probability of winning the AL West this season is 32.26%. Even though they ended up winning the World Series, they didn’t win their division last season, and even as the defending champs, they’re still pretty sizable underdogs to Houston.

Add in that the Mariners probably won’t self-destruct at the end of the regular season again, and there are 3 good reasons to AVOID betting the Rangers to win their division.

To win American League

Odds: +650 (bet $100 to win $650)

The Rangers are tied with the Orioles for the 3rd-shortest odds to win the AL. The Astros (+360) are the favorites, followed by the Yankees (+450).

The market doesn’t believe that the Rangers will make back-to-back World Series appearances, and neither do I. They had a great run last year cashing as +3500 preseason underdogs, but the run has come to an end.

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 Seattle Mariners World Series odds, win total and more

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

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The 2023 season was a roller coaster ride for the Seattle Mariners, who finished with an 88-74 record. They went from 1st place in the AL West Sept. 2 to missing the playoffs entirely after losing 16 of 27 games to finish the season.

The Mariners’ offseason started with them shipping out 3B Eugenio Suarez and LF Jarred Kelenic. They then brought in C Mitch Garver, 2B Jorge Polanco, RHP Gregory Santos and RHP Ryne Stanek in hopes of a stronger finish to the season this time around. Let’s analyze the Seattle Mariners’ World Series odds, along with their projected win total, playoff, division and AL odds as we make our expert MLB picks and predictions.

Seattle Mariners World Series odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday, March 24, at 10:51 p.m. ET.

Odds: +2000 (bet $100 to win $2,000)

Seattle has the 9th-shortest odds to win the World Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers (+320), Atlanta Braves (+450), and Houston Astros (+700) are the odds-on favorites to win it all, while Seattle is just behind the Toronto Blue Jays (+1800) and ahead of the Minnesota Twins (+2100).

At +2000, Seattle has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 4.76%, and to be profitable, you would only have to hit bets at these odds once every 20 times.

While most would be hesitant to back the Mariners to win it all after missing the playoffs last season, 3 of the last 7 World Series champs actually accomplished the same feat — the Texas Rangers in 2023, the Washington Nationals in 2019, and the Houston Astros in 2017.

If you have to access to a book with a better number, I would play this there. Otherwise, betting the MARINERS (+2000) to win the World Series is worth a small wager.

Seattle Mariners playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes -164 | No +126

The Mariners’ chances of making the playoffs Sept. 2 were 90.2%, according to Fangraphs.com. The Mariners moving forward will probably look a lot more like the team they were for the majority of last season, not like a team that lost 16 of the last 27 games.

CF Julio Rodríguez was 8th, tied with Arizona Diamondbacks LF Corbin Carroll, in offensive wins above replacement last season, and if he can continue to impact the game at this level, the Mariners should be priced higher to make the playoffs.

BET YES (-164).

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Seattle Mariners win total

Over/Under: 87.5 (O: -108 | U: -112)

Will Seattle have a worse record than last season?

I’m surprised that the market is so down on the Marineres, especially since they got slightly better in the winter. There’s decent value at this number, especially if you believe Seattle can put together the same type of season it did last year without the bad luck at the end.

BET OVER 87.5 (-108).

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To win AL West Division

Houston Astros -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
Texas Rangers +210 (bet $100 to win $210)
Seattle Mariners +300 (bet $100 to win $300)
Los Angeles Angels +4500 (bet $100 to win $4,500)
Oakland Athletics +25000 (bet $100 to win $25,000)

Seattle’s implied probability of winning the AL West is 25%.

I’m not a fan of betting into these multi-way markets since they tend to have such a bad theoretical hold. They can be beat, but it’s very difficult. In a division with Houston and Texas, the last 2 World Series champs, Seattle should be getting a better number than +300.

PASS.

To win American League

Odds: +900 (bet $100 to win $900)

The market is pretty much painted +900 domestically. However, some of the offshore books with higher limits have this number floating between +792 and +840. There is definitely interest in the Mariners to make a deep run in the AL this season, and +900 is the best number you will find.

BET MARINERS (+900).

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

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Best bets: 2024 San Francisco Giants World Series odds, win total and more

Analyzing the 2024 San Francisco Giants World Series odds, futures and projected win total with expert MLB picks and predictions.

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The San Francisco Giants went 79-83 (.488) in 2023. They were quite good in May-June, going 35-20 with a run differential to match. But the Giants then faded down the stretch, especially late. They went just 9-19 after Sept. 1, and it was the San Francisco offense failing to match its early-season production that sent the club tumbling below .500.

Gone are longtime Giants SS Brandon Crawford (member of the ballclub since 2011), 3B JD Davis (18 HR in 2023), and OF Joc Pederson (15 HR in 2023). Incoming are OF Jung Hoo Lee, an all-around 25-year-old talent from the Korean Baseball Organization, 3B Matt Chapman (17 HR, .754 OPS in 2023 with Toronto Raptors) and OF Jorge Soler (36 HR, .853 OPS with Miami Marlins last season).

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

San Francisco Giants World Series odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday, March 24, at 10:31 p.m. ET.

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

At +4500, San Francisco has an implied probability of winning the World Series of 2.17% or 45/1 fractional odds.

The Giants have middle-of-the-pack odds to win the World Series championship. 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.

With the San Diego Padres stepping back from being a monster-payroll club and the Rockies being where they are in rebuild mode, there is hope for a bit of a San Francisco surge. The Dodgers and Braves suck up a lot of oxygen on the NL side of this equation. What’s left figures on a bit of long-odds value on a couple teams. The Giants are one of those teams. Backing the GIANTS (+4500) to win the World Series for a 45-1 payoff is worth a small wager.

San Francisco Giants playoff odds

Will they make the playoffs: Yes +115 | No -135

The up vote here has a 46.51% implied probability. With the Giants inking RP Jordan Hicks (3.29 ERA in 61 1/3 IP in 2023) and SP Blake Snell (2.25 ERA in 180 IP in 2023), and with the highly-rated-defensively Lee ticketed for center field, expect San Francisco to be solid on the pitching-and-defense side of the run-differential equation. Look for an offense that had a solid .750 OPS on Flag Day to retain maybe not that level but something closer to it than the .654 OPS posted the rest of the way last season.

An expectation of the Giants being a 50% proposition to make the playoffs is reasonable. BACK SAN FRANCISCO (+115) to reach the postseason.

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San Francisco Giants win total

Over/Under: 83.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

The key is likely the offense. Last season, the Giants ranked 24th in MLB with 4.16 runs per game. Again, that figure is based on a late-season slide: when the club wrapped up a 10-game winning streak June 21, its season average was sitting at 4.99 RPG.

Even a partial rally in that department should set up San Francisco with a reasonable bad-luck base around 80 games.

BACK THE GIANTS OVER 83.5 (-110).

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To win NL West Division

Los Angeles Dodgers -550 (bet $550 to win $100)
San Francisco Giants +1000 (bet $100 to win $1,000)
Arizona Diamondbacks +1100 (bet $100 to win $1,100)
San Diego Padres +1100 (bet $100 to win $1,100)
Colorado Rockies +25000 (bet $100 to win $25,000)

San Francisco’s implied probability of winning the NL West is 9.09% or 10/1 fractional odds. The deep and talented Dodgers, at -550, have implied odds of 84.75%. Any value upside with this set of 5 clubs is more likely on Los Angeles than on the Giants or the 3 others.

STEER CLEAR.

To win National League

Odds: +2200 (bet $100 to win $2,200)

Based on the Giants being a likable club to make the playoff field and do so at a value price and based on the nature of the baseball playoffs, SAN FRANCISCO (+2200) has a sliver of value and is worth some minimal futures action.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

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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