Seems like the World Series champion Houston Astros are a popular Baseball betting favorite. Despite that the American League West Division may offer superior wagering value. Surprises are the rule rather than the exception in Major League Baseball these days. Last year’s Astros are a reminder of that. Therefore, AL West teams such as the Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners rate a look. Conversely the Texas Rangers and Oakland Athletics look like bankroll busters. While Houston is the AL West chalk keep in mind how difficult life can be for defending champs.
2018 Baseball Futures Betting American League West
Date and Time: Season opens March 29, 2018
Baseball Betting AL Pennant Online Odds at SBG: Houston Astros 3/1, Los Angeles Angels 10/1, Seattle Mariners 16/1, Texas Rangers 33/1, Oakland Athletics 50/1
2018 MLB TV Coverage: Check Listings
Buyer be Aware
An old baseball betting adage is that what goes up most come down. The Houston Astros were one of the American’s League’s most profitable teams in 2017. As a result, “Buyer be Aware” is the motto for 2018. Public perception drives the betting line. Last year’s results feed into that perception and betting line reality. Put another way too many people bet this year based on last year. Therefore, the Seattle Mariners rate a look after losing big money last year. Additionally, the Los Angeles Angels broke even last year and could move into the black for 2018.
Texas
Although the Astros are the favorite there is potential for surprises. Not to mention a Wild Card team from the AL West. Because they are a longshot the Texas Rangers are overlooked. Yet even they could bring value and contend for the post season. The biggest sportsbook concern about Texas is their experiment of a six man staring pitching rotation. Converted relievers Mike Minor and Matt Bush will be among the six. Offense is a consistent strength for Texas. Hitters such as Nomar Mazara, Joey Gallo and Willie Calhoun should produce plenty of runs.
Angels
While the Rangers may be a reach the Los Angeles Angels are not. Probably of all the AL West challengers the Angels are most realistic. Justin Upton was re-signed after an impressive two month trial. Additionally, Ian Kinsler and Zack Cozart strengthen the infield. It is now an asset. Most noteworthy was the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes win. Ohtani will be a top starter providing the rotation a big boost. If starters Garrett Richards, Matt Shoemaker and Tyler Skaggs can produce a playoff spot is near certain. Few teams can match the Angels for roster improvement this offseason.
Mariners
Much as the Seattle Mariners are annually touted few teams bust bankrolls more. Especially relevant was Seattle’s ranking as one of the biggest money losers in 2017. General manager Jerry Depoto has failed to deliver a quality pitching staff. Future prospects look solid for the Oakland A’s. Immediate results and profits are not expected in 2018 however. Oakland is a long term proposition.
Matchup to Watch
Houston and the Angels are the baseball betting smart money choices in the AL West. Value will be on the Angels side. Because of their World Series win Astros board value will be bet down hard.
2018 American League West Betting Odds Picks
Finally, the Los Angeles Angels have made the most significant improvements in the division. With their reloaded roster the Angels make for a value pick.
Baseball Betting Online Pick: Los Angeles Angels