Official betting involves placing wagers on games that are officially played and scored. This is different from betting on in-game bets, which are not regulated by a state’s gaming regulatory body and can be subject to errors on sportsbooks’ part.
Money Lines, Totals & Run Lines
A moneyline bet is a pick of a team to win a game regardless of the score differential. These bets are the most common types of MLB wagers, but there are many other options available to baseball bettors.
The odds for a moneyline bet change constantly as the game progresses. This is why it’s important to check the odds regularly before you place your bet.
When a game is shortened or suspended due to weather, bets on money lines, totals and run lines are still valid. Most moneyline bets have action when a game goes at least 5.0 innings or 4.5 if the home team is winning.
For a total run or over/under bet, the game must go 9 innings (8.5 if the home team is ahead) to have action. If extra innings are specified, these bets have action as well.
Player Props
For MLB player prop bets, the sportsbook requires one pitch from a pitcher and one plate appearance from a position player to make a bet official. If a player doesn’t meet this requirement, there is no action on the bet and it will likely result in a refund.
All states that allow sports gambling are regulated by the state gaming regulatory body to ensure games are fair, bets are accepted and customers’ funds are secure. In addition, all licensed and legal operators in the United States have resources for players who may be experiencing problem gaming. These include education guides, links to support services and tools for self-exclusion.