Red Sox So Popular In MA That Bettors Are Literally Skewing MLB Market

The start of the baseball season serves as a reminder of the immense popularity enjoyed by the Boston Red Sox in Massachusetts. A noteworthy gauge of the fervent enthusiasm exhibited by Red Sox fans can be observed through the notable influence their wagers have on MLB odds throughout the United States.

According to BetMGM, the Red Sox received the highest number of preseason bets among all MLB teams for the following wagers:

• To make the playoffs
• Probability of qualifying for the playoffs (either making or missing)
• Over bets (78.5 wins)
• Bets on the total score (Over or Under)

Currently, the Red Sox pose the highest risk for BetMGM, making them the most significant liability in all of MLB. (Liability refers to the potential loss for the sportsbook based on the wagers made.)

Let me rephrase that for you: It is important to clarify that the majority of the nation does not hold the Red Sox in such high regard. However, since March 10, when Massachusetts legalized online sports betting, avid Red Sox fans have embraced this opportunity, resulting in a substantial influx of Red Sox bettors on sportsbook apps. This sudden surge is significantly impacting the overall MLB betting market on a national level.

Betting on the Red Sox is wildly popular in Massachusetts

WynnBET Massachusetts has established the Red Sox season win total at 78, with an overwhelming 91.6% of bets placed on the Over. The sportsbook reports that 83.6% of the total amount wagered, also known as the handle, has been staked on the Over.

The Red Sox’s optimism is further highlighted by comparing their MLB betting trends to the national average. In Massachusetts, 42% of preseason betting tickets and 41% of the total amount wagered at BetMGM MA were placed on Boston to win the World Series. In contrast, across the country, only 4.8% of tickets and 5.9% of total handle were in favor of the Red Sox.

According to a WynnBET spokesperson, the Red Sox garnered 40.9% of all preseason bets placed on the 2023 World Series at both the WynnBET MA app and the retail sportsbook located at Encore Boston Harbor.

In Massachusetts, the majority of bettors have shown a preference for wagering on the Red Sox to emerge victorious in the AL East through BetMGM. This accounts for 31.9% of the total number of tickets sold, and 29.5% of the total amount placed on that particular bet. The odds for Boston to clinch the division title stand at +2000. This implies that if a $100 bet is successful, the winnings would amount to $2,100, including the initial amount staked.

Where Boston ranks in MLB betting tickets

Below is the preseason data from BetMGM MLB betting, which covers the entire nation.

3 Reasons the Red Sox will improve in 2023

After finishing last in the AL East last season, there are multiple factors pointing towards the Red Sox improving in 2023.

Yoshida’s big bat will make him an All-Star

If you failed to watch the World Baseball Classic, it’s truly disappointing. One of the highlights of the tournament was witnessing the exceptional talent of Masataka Yoshida, the Japanese sensation who recently joined the Red Sox after a lucrative offseason deal. Yoshida is set to take charge of the left field position, following in the footsteps of legendary players such as Manny Ramírez, Mike Greenwell, Jim Rice, Carl Yastrzemski, and Ted Williams. With his remarkable skills at the plate, Yoshida is sure to make a significant impact.

Anticipate the 29-year-old utilizing his compact left-handed swing to generate numerous extra-base hits during his inaugural season in the US, facing MLB pitching. Envision him earning an All-Star title, with the potential for securing the Rookie of the Year award.

The emergence of Triston Casas

It’s crucial to master the pronunciation of Red Sox rookie first baseman Triston Casas’ name (it’s pronounced KOSS-Iss). While a lot of attention is directed towards the talented young shortstop in New York, Anthony Volpe, it’s important not to underestimate Casas and his potential to win the AL Rookie of the Year title.

Casas has a superior comprehension of the strike zone compared to Volpe. He possesses the skills of a hitter who is ready for the major leagues, and his swing is more suited for Fenway Park, whereas Volpe’s swing does not perform as well in the vast confines of Yankee Stadium.

Boston’s brain trust among best in Baseball

The creaking sound heard in New England is the strain on the Red Sox bandwagon caused by fans criticizing the franchise in recent years. However, it is widely acknowledged that the front office of this franchise is exceptionally skilled, as evidenced by their success in the sport.

Feel free to criticize Chief Baseball Officer Chaim Bloom for his decision to trade away Mookie Betts and Xander Bogaerts from Boston. However, it’s important to acknowledge that Boston boasts a highly intelligent team behind its roster. The analytics department and player development programs are of an exceptional standard.

Including field manager Alex Cora, who is arguably the best manager in the game, ensures that the Red Sox will never experience prolonged periods of mediocrity. Despite facing numerous challenges and setbacks last season, the team fought through and achieved a respectable 78 wins. Therefore, it is not far-fetched to expect a significant improvement to 90-92 wins.

Make sure to check out: A comprehensive guide to the 2023 season for Boston Red Sox fans.

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