MLB win totals: AL West over or under according to Vegasd
Oakland Athletics
Win Total: 89.5
Prediction: Over
The A’s are always underdogs. They’ve won 97 games in back-to-back seasons, yet Caesars set the line at 89.5 for 2020. They won 14 more games than their expected win total of 83 in 2019 and 23 more games than their expected win total of 74 in 2018. Why are the Athletics always disrespected? Beats me.
They contribute one of the best starting rotations in baseball every year, which suits perfectly with their giant ballpark. It would not be surprising if Oakland boasts the top rotation in MLB this year. Sean Manaea is healthy again. The 6’5” southpaw has come into his own the past two seasons, posting a 3.59 ERA over 27 starts in 2018 and a 1.21 ERA over five starts in 2019. He’s expected to toe the rubber for the A’s on opening day.
In addition, Frankie Montas proved dominant around his 80-game PED suspension a season ago, Mike Fiers rediscovered himself, and the organization’s most prized prospects are expected to hit the ground running in 2020: Jesus Luzardo and A.J. Puk.
Consistent pitching is crucial to an “over” bet. That is what the Oakland Athletics have. They also have arguably the best defense in baseball and a deep batting order. Take the over!
Los Angeles Angels
Win Total: 85.5
Prediction: Under
Everyone is hopping on the Angels’ bandwagon. The Halos signed third baseman Anthony Rendon to a mega-deal this offseason, meaning Mike Trout will finally have adequate protection in the lineup. They are also waiting on a trade for outfielder Joc Pederson to solidify.
Despite improving their offense, the Angels took their customary passive approach toward the MLB starting pitching market this offseason. That’s why I am going against the grain by picking them to win less than 86 games. They will need Shohei Ohtani to stay healthy and pitch like a true ace. They will also need Andrew Heaney to take a step forward from his 4.91 ERA in 2019.
Right-handers Dylan Bundy and Julio Teheran joined their staff, though neither poses much of a threat. They have a talented bullpen, but time will tell if the pen can withstand constant modest outings from the starters.
Yes, Los Angeles’ offense looks great, but it’s not enough to carry them to 86+ wins this MLB season.