How the MLB Over/Under Works

Key Tips on How to Bet the Over/Under in MLB

The over/under is one of three standard bets sports gamblers can make on MLB. The other two, being the moneyline, which is a straight bet on the actual outcome of the game, and the run line, which combines the moneyline with a small point spread. If you are going to bet on baseball, then you need to learn some key facts regarding how to play the over/under. This will be one of the first wagers you will make day-in, day-out. Here are some run line basics and essential tips that you can use during the long baseball season.

MLB Over/Under Basics

The over/under in baseball goes from 5 ½ to 9 ½ runs. It may be lower, or higher, but generally speaking, most MLB over/unders will be in this range. They are listed with a half-run differential to ensure there is no push.

The over/under is listed with the run line and moneyline in the following manner.

Team/SP run line Moneyline Over/Under Boston Red Sox -1 ½ +175 -107 John Lackey (R) -105 6 ½

Baltimore Orioles +1 ½ -130 -105 -115 Kevin Millwood (R)

The bet on the over is listed first, and the under second. In our example, you would wager $105 to win $100 on the over, while you would bet $115 to win $100 on the under. As it is with all MLB bets, the starting pitchers listed must begin in order for there to be action. If one or both of the starters do not start, then there is no action and all money is returned.

Pitching Versus Hitting in the Over/Under

Of course, when it comes to baseball, pitching is the most significant factor when it comes to sports betting. Good pitching overpowers hard hitting and starting pitching is an crucial factor in determining whether you should bet the over or the under. Before making your wager, you must take time to carefully analyze, both starting pitchers and how they matchup with the opposing hitters.

The Bullpen

The bullpen is also an essential part of this sports bet. It is rare for a starter to go the distance these days, and that means you need to determine exactly how effective each team’s early, middle, setup man, and closer will be. Late relief is especially valuable when you have two quality starters on the mound.

Fatigue and the Over/Under

The MLB season is very long, and it can certainly take its toll on starters and relievers. You must consider the fatigue factor on pitchers and where teams are in season. Additionally, as the MLB season goes on health and age become prominent when it comes to starting pitchers. Remember that the over/under is not about winning; it is about a pitcher’s ability to shut down opposing hitters.

The Key is Identifying Weakness

In a way, it is easier to bet against a pitcher than on one or on hitters. When you are considering games and the over/under, you should look for starters who are likely to have a poor game. If the over/under falls in the low to mid-range, that over may be a decent pick. By the way, do not forget that the American League has the DH, which means pitchers tend to give up more runs in that league than they do in the Senior Circuit.

Look for value in the MLB over/under and bet it. Always use the key factors discussed in this article into consideration prior to making your bet and you could be a winner.