Washington Nationals backers are being offered significant odds on futures bets as the 2021 MLB season reaches its quarter mark.
It is evident that there is a valid explanation for the substantial payouts associated with those wagers, also known as “outrights.” Frankly speaking, the performance of the Nats this year has been underwhelming.
As Thursday arrived, Washington’s record stood at a disappointing 17-23, placing them at the bottom of the NL East. The team currently finds itself in the cellar, gazing up at four division rivals, notably the leading New York Mets.
On the other hand, if you believe that a postseason journey is a possibility, Virginia sportsbooks present enticing odds.
If you’re in search of a reason to be hopeful, there is positive news to be found.
Futures bets: Nats go from +650 to +1900 in NL East
At the start of the season, the Nationals had +650 odds to emerge victorious in the division. Placing a $10 bet with these odds would result in a net profit of $65.
Currently, Washington is considered a highly unlikely contender with odds of +2,000 at various Virginia sportsbooks like William Hill and Unibet. As a result, the previous payout of $65 has significantly increased to $200.
It’s understandable to anticipate high odds when betting on a team in last place. However, it’s crucial to remember that the Nationals are just 4.5 games away from securing the top spot.
Washington still has a significant number of games left in their schedule, giving them plenty of time to catch up. If the Nationals have a successful week while the Mets have a disappointing one, it could bring them back into contention for the divisional title alongside other NL East teams.
Additionally, it is worth noting that as of Friday, the Nationals hold a 17-23 record, which is actually one game superior to their performance in the first 40 games of the 2019 season. It is important to remember that 2019 was the year when Washington triumphed and secured their first-ever World Series championship.
Furthermore, the Nationals’ star pitcher, Stephen Strasburg, is expected to make his comeback from injury this Friday. His return will undoubtedly provide a much-needed lift to the starting rotation, especially during the grueling mid-summer stretch of the MLB season.
Washington’s World Series odds
If you have a positive outlook on Washington’s potential to secure victory in the NL East, you might be contemplating additional wagers on the Nationals.
Aside from placing bets on MLB division winners, you have the option to wager on the team that will win the National League pennant. Furthermore, you can also place bets on the ultimate champions of the 2021 World Series.
At the onset of the season, Washington had odds of approximately +2,500 to emerge victorious in the NL and +3,500 to claim the World Series championship in the futures market.
Now? Anticipate an even larger payout.
At Unibet, the odds for Washington to win the NL pennant have increased to +4,100. Additionally, the Nats have a +6,700 chance of securing the 2021 MLB Fall Classic title at Unibet.
It is clear that achieving an NL East title is easier compared to winning a pennant or the World Series. Nevertheless, even if the Nationals do not secure the division, your bets on the NL pennant and World Series can still have a chance of success.
In the year 2019, Washington experienced a setback as they failed to secure victory in the division. However, they brilliantly capitalized on their wild card berth. Commencing with a triumph over the Milwaukee Brewers in the wild card game, the Nationals proceeded to conquer both the Los Angeles Dodgers and the St. Louis Cardinals. Finally, in a thrilling Game 7 of the World Series, they emerged victorious over the Houston Astros.
Bettors like Dodgers and Padres
In the beginning of this month, BetMGM unveiled several betting breakdowns for the 2021 World Series.
MLB bettors had developed clear favorites for this year’s World Series winners after over a month into the season.
Bettors’ favorites were these teams.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers receive 33.9% of all betting money/handle.
- San Diego Padres (12.6%)
- New York Yankees (8.3%)
- Los Angeles Angels (6.5%)
- New York Mets (5.7%)
On the other hand, Washington was only receiving 1.1% of the total bets placed, placing them in a tie with the Nats for the 15th lowest percentage out of all 30 MLB teams.
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