Updated MLB World Series Betting Odds

Now that we’ve passed the quarter pole in the 2016 MLB season, the Chicago Cubs are still the favorite to win the World Series, just like they were during spring training. However, there have been some positive surprises (the Phillies, at least for now, and the Mariners) and some expected contenders who have been busts so far (yes, Houston, we’re talking to you). Let’s take a look at the updated MLB World Series odds.

Closer Look at the Updated MLB World Series Betting Odds

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Chicago Cubs +350

During the first quarter of the season, the Cubs ranked second in MLB with 5.84 runs per game — and their pitchers are only permitting a 2.69 ERA as a group. That means that the Cubs are outscoring the earned runs they permit by 3.2 runs a game. That’s an immense gap — and that low ERA is tops in MLB by a long shot. It’s true that the Cubs have a legacy of folding just things when are looking bright (in those few years when things are bright), but this is a juggernaut that Joe Maddon has led so far.

Boston Red Sox +1000

The Sox have the top offense in MLB, averaging 5.97 runs per contest through the first quarter of the season. The weakness in Boston has been their pitching staff, which has ranged from the stingy to the generous. However, the Red Sox offense is a powerful machine that can keep the team in any game.

Washington Nationals +1100

Bryce Harper is raking, Steven Strasburg is whiffing hitters, and Jonathan Papelbon is closing games (and not getting in clubhouse fights). This team is already starting to pull away in the National League East.

New York Mets +1100

The Mets are struggling to stay up with the Nats in the National League East, but they do have the arms and the bats to make a run…as soon as they figure everything out. They seem to have suffered from a longer World Series hangover than their counterparts in Kansas City.

San Francisco Giants +1200

I think these odds are a little generous, because I see Jeff Samardzija and maybe even Johnny Cueto fading down the stretch. For now, though, the Giants are running off with the National League West.

Chicago White Sox +1400

The White Sox have the best ERA in the American League, at 3.20. While the Royals have passed them in the standings, the White Sox have the better pitching rotation and should be able to catch back up down the stretch.

Los Angeles Dodgers +1600

Can the Dodgers catch back up with the Giants? Even if they can’t, they should be able to snag a wild card.

Kansas City Royals +1800

The world champions are finally seeing their offense wake up.

Seattle Mariners / Texas Rangers +1800

One of these teams will win the American League West. They both have lineups that can rake and pitchers who can dominate — but both need to show that they can do those things consistently. Until then, they’ll be at the outer edge of the contenders in the MLB World Series odds.