MLB Preview
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- Category: Opinions
- Published on Thursday, 16 February 2012 16:07
- Written by Super User
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MLB Futures
Futures are by far the most popular pre-season betting options. From choosing the winner of the World Series to picking the American League and National League Pennant winners, bettors have a plethora of opportunities to compliment they’re work during the MLB season. Here’s a look at some of the various future categories and the early favorites.
World Series Champion
Pitching seems to be the biggest factor when setting MLB lines. The Philadelphia Phillies with their dream rotation of Roy Halladay, Cliff Lee and Cole Hamels top the board at 9/2. Even though Roy Oswalt wasn’t resigned, his No.4 spot in starting rotation is in the capable hands of second year standout Vance Worley.
The Yankees (6/1) are an example of a team getting love from the books based on their offense and not their pitching. After C.C. Sabathia in the starting rotation there are slot to fill from 2 through 5. The bullpen is solid with Mariano Rivera returning at closer but the Yanks are going to need to score a lot of runs to compensate for their pitching or lack thereof.
The revamped Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim are the third choice (8/1) and for what it’s worth is my choice to win it all. The Angels added Albert Pujols at a price of $240 million dollars and also acquired the top free agent pitcher on the market in C.J. Wilson. Forget for a moment about Pujols and just focus on the Halos stellar pitching staff which rivals that of Philadelphia. Jerod Weaver is the recognized ace but the 2 through 4 starters could easily be No. 1 s on most every other team in baseball. Behind Weaver are Dan Haren, Ervin Santana and Wilson. The 5th spot is up for grabs but the Angels have several rookie and veteran contenders for the job. Los Halos will be considered on a nightly basis when I make my MLB picks.
Pennant winners
The futures for both leagues are devoid of any real surprises. The Yankees (11/4) are favored to win the AL crown with the Angels (4/1), Red Sox (4/1), Rangers and Tigers (5/1).
In the National League, the Phillies (17/10) are the top choice with the Braves (7/1), Giants (7/1), Cardinals (9/1) and Reds (9/1) right behind.
Win totals
There aren’t any shocking numbers on the board but I always look for teams that are overvalued (Atlanta Braves) or are possible overachievers (Toronto Blue Jays). The earliest win totals show the Phillies with a total of 95.5. Detroit and Texas are next at 94.5. Surprisingly the Angels win total is 89.5. Not surprisingly, the Houston Astros who were the worst team in baseball last year carry a win total of 62.5.
