Astros skyrocket, Yankees fall in World Series odds following MLB trade deadline
To say the aftermath of the Major League Baseball trade deadline altered the betting market around the MLB playoffs would be an understatement.
Several contenders altered their postseason outlook thanks to their transactions leading up to Tuesday's deadline, and the top online sportsbooks were quick to notice. And whether you're new to sports betting or a seasoned sharp, USA TODAY readers can claim exclusive promos with the best betting apps in the industry.
Wagering on which team will emerge as World Series champion is one of the most popular MLB future bets across a variety of betting platforms.
After acquiring former MVP pitcher Justin Verlander, who previously won two World Series titles with the team, the Houston Astros emerged as American League betting favorites to contend for another Commissioner's Trophy. According to BetMGM, the Astros now own +550 odds to win the 2023 World Series, the highest among AL contenders and behind only the Atlanta Braves (+300) and Los Angeles Dodgers (+450) in the National League. Bettors who like the Astros' chances at repeating as champions might be interested in FanDuel, which is still offering +700 odds on Houston to win it all.
Elsewhere, despite entering play Tuesday trailing in their division, DraftKings listed the Astros as -130 favorites to win the AL West − better odds than the first-place Texas Rangers (+150).
The New York Yankees were relatively inactive around the deadline, save for a last-minute trade for relief pitcher Keynan Middleton. The last-place Yankees are +3000 longshots to win the World Series, according to Caesars Sportsbook. The Yankees have been looking up at the first-place Baltimore Orioles in the AL East − and the Birds now have +1200 odds to win their first World Series in 40 years, per BetRivers.
The impact of trade deadline activity is sure to shift MLB odds in multiple ways, from future bets like World Series winners to game-by-game wagers. As the home stretch of the season unfolds, be sure to keep up with our coverage for the latest betting and gambling news.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: MLB playoff odds: Trade deadline shakes up 2023 World Series betting
