Betting on MLB Teams to Make the Playoffs: A Season-Long Thrill
Baseball season is long—162 games of daily action—but betting on a team to make the playoffs is one of the best ways to stay invested from Opening Day to October. Unlike betting on individual games, playoff futures let you ride with a team for the entire season, following their ups and downs while tracking their postseason chances.
One intriguing team in 2025 is the Texas Rangers, who are currently -110 to make the playoffs. That means you’d need to bet $110 to win $100 if they clinch a postseason berth. Let’s break down why the Rangers—and MLB playoff futures in general—are such a fun bet.
Why Bet on MLB Teams to Make the Playoffs?
🔹 Long-Term Entertainment: A playoff futures bet isn’t decided in a single game. It gives you a reason to track a team’s progress all season, making the daily grind of baseball more exciting.
🔹 Hedge Opportunities: If your team starts hot, you can hedge your bet later in the season by betting against them or cashing out early (if your sportsbook allows it).
🔹 Sweating the Wild Card Race: The addition of three Wild Card spots in each league means more teams stay in contention deep into September, keeping your bet alive longer.
Breaking Down the Rangers’ Playoff Chances (-110)
The Texas Rangers enter 2025 fresh off a 2023 World Series win, and they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the American League. Let’s look at why they could make the playoffs—and the challenges they might face.
Why the Rangers Can Make the Playoffs
✅ Elite Offense: The Rangers boast a powerhouse lineup led by Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Jonah Heim. This team can hit with the best of them, ranking among the top offenses in baseball.
✅ Hall of Fame Manager: Bruce Bochy knows how to win in October. He’s a three-time World Series champion with the Giants and proved in 2023 that he can guide Texas deep into the postseason.
✅ Rotation Upside: Nathan Eovaldi is a proven ace, and the potential return of Jacob deGrom from Tommy John surgery could be a game-changer. If their pitching holds up, the Rangers have a high ceiling.
Challenges to Overcome
❌ Tough AL West: The Houston Astros and Seattle Mariners are serious competition in the division. The Rangers will need to beat up on the Athletics and Angels this season.
❌ Pitching Health Concerns: While deGrom’s return is exciting, he’s had trouble staying healthy. He’s coming off Tommy John surgery as a matter of fact. The Rangers need consistent pitching to secure a playoff spot.
❌ Bullpen Questions: The Rangers’ bullpen was shaky at times in 2024. If they don’t improve their late-game pitching, it could cost them close games down the stretch.
Best Strategies for Betting MLB Playoff Futures
✔ Shop for the Best Odds: Different sportsbooks may have slightly different prices on playoff futures. Compare odds to get the best value.
✔ Look at Strength of Schedule: Teams with an easier second-half schedule have a better chance to make a late push for the playoffs.
✔ Watch for Injuries and Trades: Key injuries or trade deadline moves can significantly impact a team’s chances. A struggling contender might make a splashy trade that improves your bet’s outlook.
✔ Hedge if Necessary: If your team starts strong but faces a tough stretch late in the season, consider betting against them to lock in a profit.
Final Prediction: Will the Rangers Make the Playoffs?
The Rangers have a strong case to return to the postseason, but their success will largely depend on staying healthy and getting consistent pitching. If deGrom returns and performs at an elite level, they’ll be dangerous. However, if their pitching struggles, they might end up in a tight Wild Card race.
At -110 odds, the Rangers are a solid bet to make the playoffs—but it won’t be easy in a loaded American League. If you’re looking for a season-long sweat, this could be one of the more exciting futures bets to follow in 2025! ⚾🔥