The account of COVID-19 being a potential asset for the Astros image. Before the shutdown, Houston was the outcast of baseball. The sign-stealing scandal made them lepers in the MLB community. Not even the firing of the general manager and field manager could distract from disgust. Now things have changed. Fans and gamblers are simply thrilled to have MLB betting action returns. New manager Dusty Baker brings veteran cache and credibility. All to a team that made the 2019 World Series, losing in seven games to Washington. Despite all the tumult, the Astros remain a top tier World Series favorite.
2020 Houston Astros Odds to Win
| Odds to win World Series: | +650 |
|---|---|
| Odds to win American League: | +350 |
| 2019 Record: | 107-55 |
| Standing: | 1st place in American League West |
Houston Astros 2020 Betting Odds Analysis
Compared to sports media and fans gamblers are not as put out over the sign-stealing scandal. All the wagering community cares about is the ability to turn a sportsbook profit. In comparison to other teams, Houston has vastly superior personnel and potential. Baseball handicappers know and respect that. It follows that many see the Dodgers and Yankees as overpriced. That is not at all the case with the Astros. Houston is not as expensive as Los Angeles and New York. In turn, they are as capable. Which is why the Astros will draw a larger betting handle.
Houston Astros Offseason Overview
Above all the Astros made news for what they lost instead of gained. Gerrit Cole departed for Yankee riches. He signed the biggest contract for a pitcher in history. Cole’s departure was expected. Also worrisome was the departure of relief pitcher Will Harris. By contrast, catcher, Martin Maldonado, and relief pitcher Joe Smith were re-signed. Meanwhile, James Click was named general manager. He joins Baker to offer a positive direction with the MLB lines. Houston took a considerable amount of media heat before spring training. But COVID-19 has distracted everyone from the scandal. Also, what baseball team doesn’t cheat?
Astros Manager Dusty Baker
Dusty Baker has been involved in Big League Baseball as a player or manager since 1968. Consider that he is a three-time Manager of the Year. He has produced nine playoff seasons with four different franchises. Specifically, one of the reasons he took the Houston job was a shot at a World Series title. The closest he came was in 2002 when he led San Francisco to the National League pennant.
Houston Astros Key Players
Cause by Cole’s departure is Justin Verlander the key to the starting staff. Verlander has two Cy Young Awards for his career. He is an eight-time All-Star. Likewise, he cleared the 3000-career strikeout mark in 2019. In brief, he was 21-6 with a 2.58 earned run average.
Second starter Zack Greinke is another formidable asset. Greinke was 18-5 with a 2.93 earned run average in 2019. His presence helps offset the loss of Cole. And give Houston a dominant 1-2 punch of top starters.
Third baseman Alex Bregman and second baseman Jose Altuve will keep run production high. Indeed, both are multiple All-Stars.
Houston Actros Baseball Odds Today Betting Odds Picks
Although it is true Cole will be missed Houston remains elite level. As well as the fact that they play in the weak American League West are they a realistic championship threat.