In baseball betting, a +1.5 handicap means the underdog team is given a virtual advantage of 1.5 runs before the game starts. To win a bet on a team with a +1.5 handicap, they must either win the game outright or lose by no more than one run.
For example, if Team A has a +1.5 handicap against Team B, and the final score is Team A 4, Team B 5, the bet on Team A would win because they lost by only one run. Conversely, if Team A loses by two runs or more, the bet would lose. This type of betting includes overtime, meaning any runs scored in extra innings count towards the final score.
Understanding the +1.5 Handicap in Baseball Betting
- Definition of +1.5 Handicap
A +1.5 handicap indicates that the underdog team is given a head start of 1.5 runs. This means that for a bet on this team to win, they must either:- Win the game outright.
- Lose by one run or less.
- Example Scenario
Consider a matchup between the Chicago Cubs and the St. Louis Cardinals:- Cubs: +1.5
- Cardinals: -1.5
- Cubs 3, Cardinals 4:
- The Cubs lose by one run, so the bet on the Cubs (+1.5) wins.
- Cubs 2, Cardinals 5:
- The Cubs lose by three runs, so the bet on the Cubs (+1.5) loses.
- Inclusion of Overtime
The +1.5 handicap includes any runs scored during extra innings. For instance, if the game goes into extra innings and the final score is:- Cubs 5, Cardinals 6 (after 10 innings):
- The Cubs lose by one run, so the bet on the Cubs (+1.5) wins.
- Cubs 5, Cardinals 6 (after 10 innings):
- Betting Odds
The odds for a +1.5 handicap can vary. For example, if the odds for the Cubs are -145, this means you would need to wager 100. Conversely, if the odds are +120 for the Cardinals, a 120 profit if they cover the -1.5 spread. - Strategic Considerations
- Analyzing Team Performance: Look at the teams’ recent performances, injuries, and head-to-head matchups to assess the likelihood of the underdog covering the +1.5 spread.
- Weather Conditions: Weather can impact scoring, so consider how conditions might affect the game outcome.
In summary, betting on a +1.5 handicap in baseball provides a cushion for the underdog, allowing for a loss by a narrow margin or a win to secure a successful bet. Understanding the dynamics of the game and the teams involved is crucial for making informed betting decisions.