Excitement is in the air as the start of the Major League Baseball season is just three days away (Thursday, July 23rd).
This is an unusual time for everyone in society, including bettors. The science of sports betting is always a challenge, but the rise of Covid-19 has added a level of complexity.
The SportingNews.com wrote an article a few days ago, detailing the players who will be sitting out the season. Most of the reasons given were explicitly about the Coronavirus, however some of these players are also coming off injuries which likely also played a part in their decision.
Here’s the list:
Mike Leake, RHP, Diamondbacks
Ryan Zimmerman, 1B, Nationals
Joe Ross, RHP, Nationals
Ian Desmond, OF, Rockies
David Price, LHP, Dodgers
Tyson Ross, RHP, Giants
Felix Hernandez, RHP, Braves
Nick Markakis, OF, Braves
Buster Posey, C, Giants
Michael Kopech, RHP, White Sox
Jordan Hicks, RHP, Cardinals
Price is one of the biggest names, and arguably the biggest loss. He was going to be a top-3 starter for a Dodgers team that is the favorite to win the World Series. The fact that he was recently acquired from Boston adds an additional sting.
It’s also imperative for bettors to stay up-to-date on players who tested positive for Covid-19 and when they’ll return. For example, Boston’s Eduardo Rodriguez will miss at least the start of the season. He’s the No. 1 starter on a team that was already really hurting for pitching.
MLB odds are available right now
Odds are up right now for today’s Exhibition games at Winning Poker Network Sportsbooks.
Future odds are also continually updated. The Dodgers (+339) are the favorite despite the Price news. The Yankees are right behind in second (+365) with the Astros (+985) significantly back in third.
