Top MLB Rookie of the Year Odds: Current Favorites and Dark Horses

13 min read
Jul 9, 2024, 9:14 AM
Author
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Editor-in-Chief
Last Updated: Sep 13, 2024, 8:12 AM

About the Rookie of the Year Contest

The MLB Rookie of the Year (ROY) award is one of the most prestigious honors to win in baseball, celebrating the most outstanding rookie performances in both the American League (AL) and National League (NL). Each season, a new wave of talent enters the league, sparking debates among fans and analysts about who will win the coveted title. Let's dig deeper into the current rookie of the year favorites, dark horses, and under-the-radar names, while providing responsible gambling tips and strategies for those interested in betting on ROY win contenders.

Rookie of the Year Head to Head

Credit: MLB.com

Rookie of the Year Contenders

The Rookie of the Year race often showcases a mix of top prospects and surprise performers who exceed expectations. With each MLB season, rookies bring excitement and fresh energy to their teams, making the race for the ROY award highly competitive. These players, often transitioning from minor leagues or international leagues, bring a dynamic presence to their teams and can make an immediate impact on their performance helping their teams to win games.

The competition for the Rookie of the Year award involves not just the players' abilities, but also their resilience, adaptability, and consistency throughout the season. Check out the leading contenders in both leagues, offering insight into their performances and potential to claim the title. Here are some of the standout rookie of the year hopefuls to win this season:

  • Wyatt Langford - Known for his exceptional hitting and defensive skills for the Texas Rangers, Langford has quickly made a name for himself as an AL rookie to watch and potentially win.
  • Yoshinobu Yamamoto - A dominant NL rookie pitcher with a remarkable ERA and high strikeout rate for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Yamamoto is a top rookie of the year win contender in the NL.
  • Jackson Holliday - Another AL rookie with impressive speed and base-running abilities for the Baltimore Orioles, Holliday has become a key player in the AL.
  • Michael Busch - An NL pitcher with poise and consistency for the Chicago Cubs, Busch has shown maturity beyond his years and is a candidate for rookie of the year.
  • Ceddanne Rafaela - A versatile player in the NL for the Boston Red Sox, known for his defensive prowess and ability to play multiple positions.
  • Jared Jones - A dark horse candidate who has exceeded expectations with his consistent performance and clutch plays. A solid pick by the Pittsburgh Pirates.
  • Evan Carter - An under-the-radar player for the Texas Rangers who has steadily improved and made significant contributions on both offense and defense.
  • Joey Ortiz - Known for his consistent performances at the plate and in the field for the Milwaukee Brewers, Ortiz has been a valuable player for his team.
  • Mason Miller - A pitcher for the Oakland Athletics whose steady improvement and developing arsenal of pitches have positioned him as a strong candidate to win the rookie of the year.

These players have demonstrated the potential to leave a lasting impact on their teams and the league, making the Rookie of the Year race one of the most exciting aspects of the MLB season. Each contender brings unique skills and qualities that contribute to their candidacy for the prestigious award.

2024 Rookie of the Year Contenders

Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Michael Busch
Corbin Carroll

American League Favorites

In the AL, several players have emerged as frontrunners to win the ROY award. These players have demonstrated exceptional skills and contributed significantly to their teams, making them the favorites to win according to the MLB rookie of the year odds.

Wyatt Langford

Wyatt Langford has been a standout performer wo potentially win the AL rookie contest, showcasing remarkable hitting abilities and defensive prowess. Playing for the Texas Rangers, with a batting average of .305, Langford has consistently delivered at the plate, providing crucial hits and driving in runs to help win games. His defensive skills have also been noteworthy, making him a key player for his team and a hopeful for the rookie of the year.

Jackson Holliday

Jackson Holliday has also made a significant impact in the AL ROY, particularly with his speed and base-running abilities. Leading the league in stolen bases, Holliday has been a constant threat on the base paths, creating scoring opportunities for the Baltimore Orioles. His all-around performance has put him in contention for the rookie of the year title. His last four starts have been outstanding.

National League Favorites

The NL features a strong group of rookies who have made impressive debuts and are vying for the NL ROY award. These players have shown exceptional talent and have been pivotal to their teams' successes.

Michael Busch

On the pitching side, Busch has been a revelation for the Chicago Cubs. Boasting an ERA of 2.85 and consistently delivering quality starts, Busch has shown poise and maturity beyond his years. His ability to handle pressure situations has made him a strong candidate for the NL ROY award.

Ceddanne Rafaela

Ceddanne Rafaela has made waves with his versatility and defensive skills. Playing multiple positions effectively, Rafaela has provided the Boston Red Sox with flexibility and reliability. His contributions on both offense and defense have made him a standout NL rookie of the year.

Paul Skenes

Paul Skenes is a highly regarded pitching prospect known for his powerful arm and exceptional control on the mound. He has quickly gained attention in the baseball community for his ability to deliver high-velocity fastballs and a diverse range of pitches that keep hitters off balance. Skenes has been recognized for his poise and maturity, making him a formidable presence on the field. His impressive performances have made him a standout rookie and a strong contender for future accolades in MLB.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto

Another top contender in the NL is Yoshinobu Yamamoto, whose pitching has been nothing short of spectacular for the Los Angeles Dodgers and his last three starts should be evidence of that. With an ERA of 2.15 and a high strikeout rate, Yamamoto has been a dominant force on the mound and helping his team win games. His ability to control games and limit opposing offenses has made him a favorite for the NL ROY award.

Dark Horse Candidates

While the favorites often garner the most attention, dark horse candidates can emerge and make a strong case for the NL ROY and AL ROY award. These players may not have been highly touted before the season but have exceeded expectations and become key contributors for their teams.

Jared Jones

Jared Jones has surprised many with his consistent performance and ability to deliver in clutch situations. Despite not being a top prospect, Jones has made significant strides and proven to be a valuable asset to the Pittsburgh Pirates. His unexpected rise has positioned him as a dark horse candidate to win NL rookie award.

Evan Carter

Another player who has flown under the radar is Evan Carter. Known for his work ethic and determination, Carter has steadily improved throughout the season, making significant contributions on both offense and defense for the Texas Rangers. His resilience and consistency have made him a strong contender for the ROY title.

Under-the-Radar Rookies

In addition to the favorites and dark horses, there are several under-the-radar new players who have shown promise and could make a late-season push for the ROY award. These players may not have garnered much attention early on but have steadily improved and become key contributors.

Joey Ortiz

Joey Ortiz has quietly put together a solid season, with consistent performances at the plate and in the field. His ability to get on base and make things happen has made him a valuable player for the Milwaukee Brewers. While he may not be in the spotlight, Ortiz has the potential to surprise many with a strong finish to the year.

Mason Miller

Another player to watch is Mason Miller, whose pitching has steadily improved as the year has progressed. With a developing arsenal of pitches and increased confidence on the mound, Miller has shown the potential to become a dominant pitcher. The Oakland Athletics made a great pick with Miller. His progress throughout the year has positioned him as an under-the-radar candidate for the ROY award.

Rookie of the Year History

The history of the Rookie of the Year award is filled with memorable moments and legendary players who have gone on to have illustrious careers. Understanding the history of the award can provide valuable context for evaluating current contenders and identifying potential trends.

Past Winners and Trends

The ROY award has been won by some of the biggest names in baseball history, including Jackie Robinson, Willie Mays, and Derek Jeter. Each winner has brought something unique to the game, whether it's outstanding hitting, dominant pitching, or exceptional defense. Analyzing past winners can reveal trends and patterns that may help predict future winners.

2023 Rookie of the Year winners in the MLB

MLB Rookie of the Year Recent Winners

2023

  • American League (AL): Gunnar Henderson (Baltimore Orioles)
  • National League (NL): Corbin Carroll (Arizona Diamondbacks)

2022

  • American League (AL): Julio Rodríguez (Seattle Mariners)
  • National League (NL): Michael Harris II (Atlanta Braves)

2021

  • American League (AL): Randy Arozarena (Tampa Bay Rays)
  • National League (NL): Jonathan India (Cincinnati Reds)

In recent years, there has been a trend toward recognizing versatile players who excel in multiple facets of the game. Additionally, pitchers who have demonstrated consistent dominance have also been favored. Understanding these trends can provide insight into which current rooks may have an edge in the ROY race.

Betting on the Rookie of the Year Awards

Betting on the ROY award can add excitement to the baseball season. However, it's essential to approach betting with caution and a well-thought-out betting strategy. The MLB rookie of the year odds are live and here are some responsible gambling tips and strategies for those interested in betting on ROY contenders.

Types of Betting Markets for Rookie of the Year Bets

Betting on the ROY can be approached through various markets, each offering different opportunities for bettors. MLB rookie of the year odds are different at every sportsbook. Here are some common types of betting markets you might encounter:

  • Outright Winner - This is the most straightforward market where you bet on who will win the Rookie of the Year award.
  • Top 3 Finish - Bets on whether a player will finish in the top three of the AL Rookie or NL Rookie of the Year voting.
  • Head-to-Head Bets - These bets compare two players, with the wager placed on which one will perform better or rank higher in the ROY voting.
  • Season Performance Bets - These bets focus on specific statistical achievements of players, such as total home runs, batting average, ERA, or strikeouts.
  • Team-Specific Rookies - Betting on the best player from a specific team, such as the Yankees or the New York Mets.

Rookie of the Year Odds Comparison

PlayerBet365 OddsDraftKings OddsFanDuel Odds
Wyatt Langford+275+165+135
Paul Skenes-270-360-350
Ceddanne Rafaela+950+800+1000

MLB Rookie of the Year Awards: What to Expect

The MLB Rookie of the Year race is always full of surprises, and the current year is no different. With a mix of highly touted prospects and unexpected breakout performers, the race for the ROY award promises to be thrilling. Fans and bettors alike can expect intense competition, memorable moments, and a showcase of the next generation of baseball stars.

As the year progresses, keep an eye on the leading contenders, dark horses, and under-the-radar rookies. Their performances on the field will ultimately determine who takes home the prestigious Rookie of the Year award. Whether you're a fan of the game or interested in betting on the outcome, the ROY race is sure to provide plenty of excitement and drama.

In conclusion, the MLB Rookie of the Year award celebrates the best and brightest new talent in baseball. With a rich history and a field of deserving candidates, the ROY race is one of the highlights of the baseball calendar. By staying informed and approaching betting with a strategic mindset, fans can enhance their enjoyment of the game and potentially identify the next big star in baseball.

Rookie of the Year FAQs

General

What are the current odds for the MLB Rookie of the Year?

The odds for the MLB Rookie of the Year vary by sportsbook but generally reflect the performances and potential of top players. Players like Wyatt Langford and Yoshinobu Yamamoto are among the favorites in the AL, while Corbin Carroll and Busch lead the NL race.

Who are the favorites to win the AL Rookie of the Year?

The favorites to win AL Rookie of the Year include:

  1. Wyatt Langford (Texas Rangers)
  2. Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Los Angeles Dodgers)
  3. Jackson Holliday (Baltimore Orioles)

These players have demonstrated exceptional skills and significant contributions to their teams.

Who are the leading NL Rookie contenders?

The leading NL Rookie contenders are:

  • M. Busch (Chicago Cubs)
  • C. Rafaela (Boston Red Sox)

These players have shown outstanding talent and consistency, making them strong candidates for the NL ROY award.

How it Works

How are Rookie of the Year odds determined?

Year odds for the Rookie of the Year are determined based on various factors, including player performance, team context, and historical trends. Sportsbooks analyze these elements to set the odds, which are then adjusted throughout the year as players' performances fluctuate.

Can a rookie who started the year on the injured list still win Rookie of the Year?

Yes, a rookie who started the year on the injured list can still win the Rookie of the Year award if they return and perform exceptionally well. Consistent and impactful performance after recovering from an injury can keep them in the running for the award.

How often do pitchers win the Rookie of the Year award?

While position players often dominate the Rookie of the Year races, pitchers can and do win the award. For instance, past winners like Fernando Valenzuela and Dwight Gooden have shown that dominant pitching can earn the honor. The performance of pitchers like Yamamoto and Michael Busch this year's highlights their potential to win.

What are the AL ROY odds for Wyatt Langford?

Langford has strong AL ROY odds due to his exceptional hitting and defensive skills for the Texas Rangers. His consistent performance has made him one of the top contenders for the award.

How do team dynamics affect a rookie's chances to win Rookie of the Year?

Team dynamics can significantly impact a rookie's chances to win Rookie of the Year. Players on competitive teams that receive more media attention and make playoff runs may have better odds. However, outstanding individual performance remains the most critical factor.

Can a rookie win the award if they only played part of the season?

Yes, a rookie can win the award if they only played part of the year, provided their performance during that time is exceptional. Historical examples include players who made significant impacts despite limited playing time.

Betting on ROY

How do sportsbooks adjust Rookie of the Year odds throughout the year?

Sportsbooks adjust Rookie of the Year odds based on player performances, injuries, team dynamics, and betting patterns. These adjustments reflect the changing landscape of the race as the year progresses.

Who are some under-the-radar rookies to watch this year?

Some under-the-radar rookies to watch include:

  • Joey Ortiz (Milwaukee Brewers)
  • Mason Miller (Oakland Athletics)
  • Luis Gil (New York Yankees)

These players have shown promise and could make significant impacts as the year progresses.

What are head-to-head bets in Rookie of the Year betting markets?

Head-to-head bets in Rookie of the Year betting markets involve comparing two players, with wagers placed on which player will perform better or rank higher in the ROY voting.

What is the significance of a player's opening day roster status?

A player's opening day roster status indicates their inclusion in the team's main roster at the beginning of the year. Starting on the opening day roster can provide more opportunities to showcase their talent and contribute to their Rookie of the Year candidacy.

How does the past performance of Rookie of the Year winners influence current candidates?

The past performance of Rookie of the Year winners provides trends and patterns that can help predict current candidates' success.

Other AL ROY and NL ROY Questions

What are the ROY odds for Yoshinobu Yamamoto?

Yamamoto, pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has favorable ROY odds due to his exceptional ERA and high strikeout rate. His dominant performances make him a top contender in the AL Rookie of the Year race.

How do mid-season injuries affect a rookie's chances to win the award?

Mid-season injuries can significantly impact a rookie's chances to win the award. Missing games can limit their ability to compile impressive statistics and contribute consistently to their team's success. However, a strong return from injury can still keep them in contention.

How can I find the best betting odds for the Rookie of the Year award?

To find the best betting odds for the Rookie of the Year award, compare odds across multiple sportsbooks. Look for value bets and stay updated with the latest player performances and expert analyses. Sportsbook review sites can also provide insights into the best odds available.

Are there any dark horse candidates for the Rookie of the Year award this round?

Yes, dark horse candidates like Jones (Pittsburgh Pirates) and Evan Carter (Texas Rangers) have exceeded expectations and could make strong cases for the Rookie of the Year award with continued impressive performances.

How do candidates from international leagues impact the Rookie of the Year race?

Players from international leagues, like Yamamoto from Japan, bring a wealth of experience and talent to MLB. Their impact on the Rookie of the Year race can be significant, as seen by their strong performances and high ROY odds.

What are the benefits of betting on under-the-radar candidate?

Betting on under-the-radar players can offer higher returns due to their generally longer odds. Identifying promising players who may not be getting as much attention can provide valuable betting opportunities.

<p>Sol has over 20 years of experience in writing for diverse industries including sports, gambling, regulation, technology, and startups. As the Editor-in-Chief at RG, Sol brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, focusing on delivering transparent, evidence-based content grounded in thorough research. Sol's mission is to empower readers to enjoy gambling responsibly and make informed decisions, enhancing their overall experience through insightful and engaging content. Under Sol's leadership, <a href="https://www.rg.org">RG</a> prioritizes the highest standards of integrity and reliability, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and trustworthy. Sol's dedication to transparency and research-based writing helps create a responsible gambling environment where readers can truly benefit from the content. This commitment to excellence has positioned RG as a leading source of information in the gambling industry.</p><p><strong>Experience:</strong></p><ul><li>Over 20 years in writing and editing across multiple industries</li><li>Former head of regional innovation at BMO Financial Group</li><li>Senior Writer, Online Casino Reports</li></ul>
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Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
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Sol has over 20 years of experience in writing for diverse industries including sports, gambling, regulation, technology, and startups. As the Editor-in-Chief at RG, Sol brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the role, focusing on delivering transparent, evidence-based content grounded in thorough research. Sol's mission is to empower readers to enjoy gambling responsibly and make informed decisions, enhancing their overall experience through insightful and engaging content. Under Sol's leadership, RG prioritizes the highest standards of integrity and reliability, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and trustworthy. Sol's dedication to transparency and research-based writing helps create a responsible gambling environment where readers can truly benefit from the content. This commitment to excellence has positioned RG as a leading source of information in the gambling industry.

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