Tampa Bay Rays
While the Rays haven’t completely run away with the division yet, they’re a massive -700 favorite at Bodog Canada. Those are pretty steep odds, but Tampa certainly deserves the hype. Their 55-28 record is superior to anyone in the Majors and although the team is just 4-6 in their last 10 games, it’s tough to ignore the ceiling of Kevin Cash’s squad.
The offense ranks top five in numerous categories with Wander Franco, Randy Arozarena, and Yandy Diaz leading the way. On the mound, the Rays have a 3.64 ERA, which is second-best in the bigs. With Tyler Glasnow finally back from injury, that provides the rotation with a significant boost. Plus, Shane McClanahan and Zach Eflin are producing quality innings as the No. 1 and No. 2 starters. It’s going to be tough to beat out Tampa for the AL East crown.
Baltimore Orioles
The O’s just narrowly missed out on the playoffs last year and there was no shortage of optimism around this organization heading into 23’.
Needless to say, they’ve lived up to the expectations with an exciting young core who are ready to contend right now. Adley Rutschman could be the best catcher in baseball already and has been raking, slashing .266 with 10 homers. Anthony Santander and Austin Hays meanwhile have swung it well, too.
Honestly, Baltimore doesn’t really stand out in any particular area with an average pitching staff as well but this group just absolutely grinds out wins and never quits. You cannot count out the Orioles. Winning the division may be difficult, but don’t be surprised to see them in the Wild Card.
New York Yankees
Most MLB betting sites are giving the Yankees little to no chance of finishing in first place and to be brutally honest, it feels unlikely they can catch the Rays.
New York is currently without reigning MVP Aaron Judge due to a toe injury and there’s no timetable for return. The offense has been absolutely hopeless without him and with a cloud hanging over his status, that’s very concerning for the Bronx Bombers. A Wild Card may be their best shot at the postseason again.
Tough Road For Blue Jays, Red Sox
Toronto has so much talent but their pitching continues to be an issue, especially with Alek Manoah down in the minors after struggling immensely. That leaves a gaping hole in the staff which has resulted in John Schneider going to a four-man rotation.
It also doesn’t help that the Blue Jays are 7-17 against AL East opponents, either. As for the Red Sox, well, they’re a game below .500 and 14 games back of the Rays. With inconsistent defense and pitching, 2023 could be a write-off for Boston.
