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MLB Over/Under Betting Explained
In MLB over/unders betting, the question is simple: will the total number of runs scored in a game be over or under a given amount? Runs win games but over/under betting is a great way of winning wagers without backing a specific team. Here’s everything you need to know to get started with MLB over/unders betting online.
What is MLB Over/Under Betting?
MLB over/under betting, or totals betting, gives fans a chance to bet on whether the total number of runs scored in a game by both teams combined will be over or under a given number, called “the line”.
Such bets are important because the ease of MLB over/unders betting online can appeal to novices as well as experienced bettors. They’re also a great way to bet on a game without having to choose a team or root against a favorite team or player.
Like a moneyline or point spread wager, there are odds for each end of an MLB over/unders bet which can be used to calculate what our win, if we choose correctly. They can also be a great way to add additional legs onto a parlay bet.
How to Place an MLB Over/Under Bet
How does MLB over/unders betting work? Let’s examine a hypothetical game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Houston Astros:
| Team | Moneyline | Run Line (point spread) | Total (O/U) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dodgers | -200 | -1.5 (+125) | 7.5 O (-150) |
| Astros | +180 | +1.5 (-170) | 7.5 U (+110) |
We can bet whatever amount we want, but the standard example for US bets is $100. So, we'll bet $100 on the over at -150.
To win the bet, the final score has to be more than 7.5 runs - basically, eight runs. When the odds are negative like they are here, we would have to bet the number listed ($150) in order to win $100.
To figure out how much we win betting $10, $50, $100 (or anything else) at -150, we can use our betting calculator.
Had we taken the under and both teams combined for seven runs or less, then we would have won $110 on a $100 wager.
Want to Learn More About MLB Betting?
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Check out our easy guide to understanding how the spread works, and how you can bet on it.
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MLB Over/Under Explained
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MLB Parlays Explained
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MLB Over/Under FAQs
Can MLB players bet on games?
MLB players are prohibited from placing wagers on games. MLB over/unders, parlays, point spreads, moneylines – all forms of betting through legal or illegal sportsbooks are against the rules for players.
Is it better to bet the over or under?
When it comes to MLB over/unders betting online, whether it is better to take the over or under depends on the teams – which is why you always have to do your homework. If the two teams tend to engage in low scoring games, then the under may be better. But if there is usually a lot of offense, then the over may be a wiser bet.
Does an over/under include overtime?
Yes, MLB over/unders refer to the total score between both teams at the end of the game. Runs scored in extra innings (or overtime) are applied to the total for MLB over/unders.
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