It has only been a month since the start of the MLB season, but some pundits are already putting their baseball betting money on an all-Chicago World Series. It is a possibility bordering on certainty that the White Sox cannot pitch this well all season long; after all, their rotation was second in the American League in opponents’ OPS in April. On the other hand, their improved defense should be able to help the pitching continue to be effective. Additionally, their offense – 8th in the AL betting on MLB in runs per game, is very likely to perform better with Jose Abreu finally hitting.
On related betting on MLB news, the offense of the Angels is not doing as well. Only the Rays finished April with a lower runs per game average than the Angels. The revolving door of left produced the lowest OPS in the American League. Both Daniel Nava and Craig Gentry are now on the DL – although Nava will start a rehabilitation assignment today. And as far as Albert Pujols is concerned, he had a .627 OPS for the month, coming off a .689 OPS last season after August 1st. Shortstop Andrelton Simmons, in the meantime, had a .598 OPS in April, and second baseman Johnny Giavotella a .451.
Speaking of OPS, Cardinal Aledmys Diaz is expected finished April as the league leader in OPS. Which is not bad for a sub for shortstop Jhonny ‘Not Spelled Johnny’ Peralta, but not likely to remain so for the rest of the season. Conversely, Michael Contorto – who finished April ranked third in the league in OPS – is proving himself to be one of the most promising young talents. He may not have the track record of Bryce Harper, Mike Trout, Manny Machado, Kris Bryant, or Carlos Correa, but it’s safe to say his job security is solid for the time being.
Sonny Gray’s future with the Oakland Athletics also seems safe. Sure, when it comes to Billy ‘Moneyball’ Beane and trades, it’s wiser to put your baseball betting money the over. Nonetheless, the A’s were one game over .500 in April, their overhauled bullpen is over-delivering, and Sean Manaea and Jesse Hahn could improve their rotation further. They may not reach the playoffs this season, but 2017 would be a whole ‘nother story. The Athletics’ farm system is getting better, and Gray will remain affordable next season in his first year of arbitration. It’s tough to picture the ’17 club improving without him. But then the Dodgers, Red Sox, Cubs and Rangers are some of the prospect-rich teams likely to woo a big-time starter at the deadline, and Gray is arguably the best of the bunch.
