Someone always forecasts the improbable, and last year that meant collecting a 60-1 payout for anyone who had Tampa Bay winning the American League pennant (in the process, the Rays also shattered their over-under win total of 75).

Once again, big media markets have impacted the pre-season odds. Action on the underachieving Mets (5-1) and Cubs (3-1) allowed the World Series champion Phillies to linger at 4-1. As spring training began, they were also an attractive 17/2 choice to repeat.

Wager futures early—the season starts April 6—and reconsider at the trading deadline. These bets always favor the savvy player. No futures odds maker can predict whether a team will freeze up in the short divisional series, as the Cubbies did last season against the Dodgers.

Tampa Bay earned a respectable 13/2 probability for winning the American League pennant. The Yankees, now sporting C.C. Sabathia, became a 7-5 no-fun wager. But the A-Rod steroids distraction makes them appealing to bet against.

Favor teams with strong eighth-inning setup men. An ace closer is worthless if he can’t get the ball. Will Francisco Rodriguez be another Mets bust?

And don’t forget the World Baseball Classic March 5-23. Anyone other than the United States or Dominican Republic (teams like Cuba or Puerto Rico) pays handsomely.

By Casino Connection Staff