The Houston Astros are expected to take another step towards contending for a World Series title in 2017. The sports betting odds reflect that with Houston listed at +140 to win the American League West. The Astros have undoubtedly improved on paper. However, did Houston improve enough to win a division title? The Texas Rangers might have something to say about being overlooked for the most part this offseason. Meanwhile, it’s hard to overlook the fact that the Seattle Mariners might be a little overrated heading in to this season. Here is a look at how to bet on the American League West this season.
The Favorite: Houston Astros
Odds To Win American League West: +140
Houston is absolutely loaded on offense heading in to 2017. Carlos Correa, George Springer and Jose Altuve are back to lead the way. Meanwhile, the Astros signed Carlos Beltran, Josh Reddick, Brian McCann and Nori Aoki to put their offense over the top. With Alex Bregman set to take another step forward in his development, the Astros are primed to put up big numbers this season. The key for Houston will be its starting rotation. Dallas Keuchel might never pitch at a Cy Young level again but he needs to be better than he was last season. Meanwhile, Lance McCullers, Colin McHugh and Mike Fiers all need to step up. The Astros are primed to climb to the top of the AL West in 2017. All eyes will be on Houston to see if they reach their potential.
The Dark Horse: Texas Rangers
Odds To Win American League West: +300
The two-time defending AL West champions are clearly being overlooked heading in to this season. Texas is listed at +300 odds to win the division, behind both Houston and Seattle. Texas lost Beltran and Ian Desmond, but Nomar Mazara. Joey Gallo and Jurickson Profar are ready for bigger roles while the offense should benefit from a full season from Jonathan Lucroy. The Rangers had the best record in baseball in one-run games a year ago, which is why a lot of experts expect regression. However, with a loaded offense, talented starting rotation and a strong enough bullpen Texas could once again be primed to win the NL West.
The Disappointment: Seattle Mariners
Odds To Win American League West: +275
The clock is ticking for this core group in Seattle to reach the postseason. The Mariners are expected to take another step forward in 2017, but it might be a reach to think they can win their division. Kyle Seager, Nelson Cruz and Robinson Cano are back. Seattle added Jean Segura to help solidify the offense. However, there are some pressing question marks about the overall depth of this group. There are also concerns about the starting rotation. Felix Hernandez is clearly past his prime. Hisashi Iwakuma and James Paxton are solid. However, the Mariners will also rely on Drew Smyly and Yovani Gallardo on the back end of their rotation. Seattle has the talent to contend for a playoff spot this coming season. However, those that think the Mariners are ready to contend for a division title in 2017 might be disappointed.
Best Regular Season Win Total To Bet: Angels under 79.5
Yes, there’s Mike Trout. He’s the best player in baseball. But what else is there on this team? Remember, the odds makers are asking this team to get to about .500. Take a look at their pitching rotation: Garrett Richards, Matt Shoemaker, Ricky Nolasco and Tyler Skaggs. Richards is the “ace” but he’s coming off Tommy John surgery. Nolasco is so-so and so is everyone else. The bullpen has problems. Cam Bedrosian took a huge step back last year and closer Huston Street is decent-but-not-great. In the batting lineup, Albert Pujols continues to fade and is coming off another foot injury. The team finished 10th in offense but how will they improve?
Trout is awesome but there isn’t enough burgeoning talent around him. Everything is hanging on a shoelace here. If he gets hurt or if the team’s depth is tested, they’re in trouble. Their pitching is weak up and down, and their bats will probably regress. Bet the under for this one.
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