This season is set to be an interesting one in the American League East, with multiple teams in this division that are being given chances to win the American League pennant. The New York Yankees were the favorite to win this division going into the season, but this division is wide open at this point in time. Here, we look at this year’s AL East futures betting odds and make our pick to win the division.
2023 AL East Futures Betting Odds
Tampa Bay Rays: On Fire Early
Tampa Bay fell short in the Wild Card round against the Cleveland Guardians last season. But they may not have to worry about the Wild Card this year, as they have been incredible to start the 2023 regular season. Their pitching has been elite, and their offense has been even better. The question for Tampa Bay is whether or not they can keep it up.
New York Yankees: Back of the Pack
The New York Yankees were the favorites to win this division, as they look to repeat as division champions. They may not get 62 home runs from Aaron Judge again this year, but the Yankees did extend Judge to keep him in New York despite doubts about his status with the team going into the offseason. But that has not prevented them from struggling to start the year, and the Yankees have some catching up to do if they want to win the East.
Toronto Blue Jays: In Need Of More Offense
Coming into this season, it was expected that the offense of the Toronto Blue Jays would propel them to contention in this division. But their pitching has been their greatest strength, while their offense has struggled for long stretches at a time. Toronto needs to be more consistent at the dish if they want to contend with the Rays and Yankees.
Red Sox and Orioles: Longshot Bets
Both the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles have long odds to win the AL East this season. Both of these clubs were right around the .500 mark last season, and have taken different approaches to try and improve this offseason. Boston spent money on players like Kenley Jansen and Justin Turner to try and improve quickly, while the Orioles went with lower cost and lower risk options in their acquisitions. In both cases, these teams will need a lot to go their way to have a chance to win this division, though the Orioles are off to a great start.
2023 AL East Futures Betting Pick: New York Yankees
The Toronto Blue Jays and Tampa Bay Rays will challenge the Yankees in the AL East this season, but we like the Yankees to win the division once again. As long as they can get healthy with their hitting this season, the pitching of Gerrit Cole and their other arms should be a difference maker as things get more intense in the summer.
