As the 2023 MLB season approaches, baseball betting enthusiasts are already gearing up for the upcoming American League West division.
Let's take a closer look at the five teams in the division and provide some predictions for the season based on their over/under win predictions, win-loss records from the previous season, their records as favorites and underdogs, and their starting pitching rotations.
Ron Raymond’s AL West Predictions
Houston Astros: The World Series defending champions Astros have been one of the best teams in the American League in recent years, and that trend is likely to continue this season. With a predicted win-loss record of 97-65, they are poised to surpass their over/under win total of 94.5. Their ace pitcher Framber Valdez, along with Cristian Javier and Lance McCullers Jr., should be able to hold down the starting rotation and keep the Astros in contention for the division.
Prediction: OVER 94.5
Seattle Mariners: The Mariners have been a surprise team in recent years, and they may continue to surprise in the upcoming season. With a predicted win-loss record of 86-76, they may fall just short of their over/under win total of 88.5. However, their starting pitching rotation led by Luis Castillo, Robbie Ray, and George Kirby should keep them competitive in the division.
Prediction UNDER 88.5
Los Angeles Angels: The Angels have been one of the most disappointing teams in recent years, but they have the potential to turn things around in the upcoming season. With a predicted win-loss record of 80-82, they are likely to fall short of their over/under win total of 82.5. Their ace pitcher Shohei Ohtani, along with Tyler Anderson and Patrick Sandoval, may not be enough to overcome their struggles as a favorite team.
Prediction: UNDER 82.5
Texas Rangers: The Rangers had a disappointing season in 2022, but they have made some key acquisitions to bolster their starting pitching rotation. With a predicted win-loss record of 76-86, they may fall short of their over/under win total of 82.5. However, their starting rotation led by Jacob deGrom, Nathan Eovaldi, and Andrew Heaney should help them stay competitive in the division.
Prediction: UNDER 82.5
Oakland Athletics: The Athletics had a rough season in 2022 and may continue to struggle in the upcoming season. With a predicted win-loss record of 57-105, they are likely to fall short of their over/under win total of 59.5. Their starting pitching rotation is relatively weak and they may struggle to win games against the stronger teams in the division.
Prediction: UNDER 59.5
Therefore, with the right strategy and knowledge of the strengths and weaknesses of each team, baseball betting enthusiasts can make informed wagers on the upcoming American League West division. The Houston Astros look to be the strongest team in the division and may offer the best opportunities for profitable bets.
The Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels may also be in contention for a playoff spot, while the Texas Rangers and Oakland Athletics are likely to struggle this season.
