Written by Mark Bailey
Are you getting bored with the conventional wagers you punt in baseball? Conventional wagers, such as betting on the game’s outcome, the run line, or the total number of runs scored, are the most common types of bets in baseball. While these bets are popular, they sometimes lack the thrill and variety of more unique wagers.
If you’re looking for something different, prop or proposition bets might be the answer. Prop bets focus on individual events within the game rather than the final result. They offer a unique and exciting way to engage with baseball, providing numerous opportunities to wager on specific outcomes.
Continue reading to explore the seven unique prop bets in MLB. These bets go beyond the typical game outcomes and delve into specific events within the game. Let’s dive into these exciting options.
First Player to Hit a Home Run
This wager involves betting on which player will hit the first home run in a game. It’s unconventional because it focuses on a specific event rather than the game outcome. For example, if Aaron Judge is given odds of +500 to hit the first home run, a $10 bet would win you $50 if he succeeds.
This bet is appealing because home runs are exciting and happen frequently enough to make this bet viable. Predicting the first home run hitter can be thrilling and rewarding. Bettors win this bet occasionally, especially if they are knowledgeable about the players’ performance and the pitchers they face. So be sure that you wager on the player before wagering!
Total Number of Strikeouts by a Specific Pitcher
This wager depends on how many strikeouts a specific pitcher will achieve in a game. It’s unconventional as it focuses on the performance of a single player rather than the team. For example, if Jacob deGrom’s strikeout line is set at 8.5 with odds of -110, betting on him to achieve over 8.5 strikeouts can yield a good payout.
This bet is appealing because strikeouts are a key part of the game, and star pitchers often rack up high numbers. Wagers can get their money’s worth with this type of bet, especially when they wager on elite pitchers known for high strikeout counts.
Player to Steal a Base
This wager involves betting on whether a specific player will steal a base during the game. It’s unconventional because stolen bases are less common and more challenging to predict than other events. Winning this bet can be rare, as stolen bases depend on many factors, including the pitcher’s delivery and the catcher’s throwing ability.
For example, if Trea Turner has odds of +200 to steal a base, a $10 bet would return $20 in profit. This bet is appealing due to the excitement and strategy involved in base stealing, making it fun for those who enjoy the game’s intricacies.
Exact Final Score
This wager requires predicting the exact final score of the game. It’s highly specific and challenging to get right. For instance, betting on a final score of 5-3 with odds of +2500 means a $10 bet could win $250.
This bet is appealing due to its high potential payout and its challenge. However, as it’s challenging, there may be quite a low chance of winning this bet since predicting the exact score is very difficult, but the rewards can be substantial when they do.
First Team to Score
This wager involves betting on which team will score first in the game. It’s unconventional because it focuses on the early part of the game rather than the overall outcome. This bet is appealing because it can be decided quickly, often within the first inning, providing early excitement.
While MLB Money Lines focuses on the overall outcome of the game, betting on the first team to score provides a different kind of thrill. Bettors win this bet reasonably often, especially when wagering on strong offensive teams facing weaker pitchers.
Total Bases Earned by a Player
This wager is placed on how many total bases a specific player will accumulate in a game, including singles, doubles, triples, and home runs. It’s unconventional because it focuses on individual players’ performance rather than team results. For instance, if Mike Trout’s total baseline is 2.5 with odds of +120, betting on him to achieve over 2.5 total bases can be lucrative.
This bet is appealing as it involves a player’s offensive contribution, making it exciting for those closely following player stats. Bettors often win this bet when wagering on consistent hitters who frequently get on base and hit for extra bases.
Length of the National Anthem
This wager involves betting on how long the national anthem will take to perform before the game. It’s unconventional because it’s unrelated to the actual gameplay. For example, if the over/under for the anthem length is set at 1 minute 30 seconds with odds of -110, a $10 bet on the over can be interesting.
This bet is appealing for its novelty and the fun factor, adding a unique element to the betting experience. Winning this bet would require bettors to know the anthem performer’s style and historical performance times.
Final Thoughts
Unconventional prop bets provide a fresh and exciting way to engage with MLB games. These bets highlight the diverse aspects of baseball, making the viewing experience even more thrilling. So, the next time you place a bet, consider these unique options to enhance your enjoyment.