Warm weather has arrived which means baseball will be in full swing. Because of this, it’s important to carefully research and checks the teams and players that will take part in the season. If you’re interested in learning more about the best MLB picks to look for, you’ll find some helpful information below.
Important MLB Handicapping Aspects to Consider
Don’t Focus on Popular Options
It’s important to not focus on only popular teams or players. While they might be successful, they can also have off years. Popular picks will also usually be pricer because of their triumphs. Due to this, if you end up losing your bet on them, you’ll usually have to pay a large fee.
Check the Weather
Most baseball games are played outdoors, something which can dramatically affect your predictions. For instance, the direction the wind is blowing is important to know because it can affect the speed of the baseball.
Research the Umpires
Another important thing to consider is the game’s umpires. Some umpires will be a little pickier when calling strikes while others will listen to the crowd to make their final decisions. While you can’t rely on this aspect, it might be good to know.
Watch a Team’s Momentum
While a bad team might be easily passed over, if they find the right momentum, that could bring them a long way. Because of this, carefully watch teams, especially at the beginning of the season, to get an idea of how motivated they are to win.
Consider the Pitcher
The pitcher is one of the most important positions in baseball because they pretty much control the game. You’ll want to consider a team’s pitcher and how they’re throwing during the season. While a pitcher might be a little slow in the beginning or have had a few bad games, they can sometimes gain motivation and become a great pick for the future.
Observe a Team’s Defense
A team’s defense will have a say in how well their opponent will perform. You’ll want to observe a team’s defense and check their fielding percentages. By looking at these statistics, you can get a better idea of how much to bet on them.
Teams to Watch
New York Yankees
The Yankees are one of the most popular and best baseball teams to ever exist. While popularity is something many sports handicappers try to avoid, the team is constantly evolving, especially with its pitchers, which makes it one to always keep an eye on.
Chicago White Sox
Chicago’s team has a magnificent offensive and many promising rookies, a combination that could make them very successful in the future.
Oakland Athletics
While often a team that goes unnoticed, the Oakland Athletics has a very good infield and outfield. Its pitchers might also be rookies, but they have incredible talent that could lead them to many wins.
Players to Watch
Mike Trout
Trout won the American League MVP last year and has continued to increase his home runs every season.
Christian Yelich
This outfielder has impressive stolen base and home run records making him one to definitely keep an eye on.
Cody Bellinger
The Dodgers’ first baseman has only played professionally for three years, but has a staggering average and RBI. In addition to this, he was favored to win an MVP last year.
Mookie Betts
Betts had been one of the Red Sox’s best players before being traded to the Dodgers. As a former American League MVP, this right fielder will only continue to create incredible records.
While finding the right MLB picks might seem overwhelming, by keeping these in mind, you’ll be able to find the best teams and players to bet on.