2011 Major League Baseball Home Run Derby
The Major League Baseball All-Star break has become an event of its own. Formerly just a one-day event, the actual all-star game itself, the break is now home to the Futures Game, the celebrity/legends softball game, the Home Run Derby and the game.Nothing has quite caught the attention of the public like the home run hitting contest, in which eight of the best power hitters in the game put on a long-ball clinic for the fans.
From a betting standpoint, the American League is a slight favorite to have the winner, as the junior circuit is -120, while the National League is -110.
Looking at the individual odds for each contestant:
Jose Bautista+300
David Ortiz+350
Matt Holliday+350
Prince Fielder+350
Adrian Gonzalez+600
Matt Kemp+650
Robinson Cano+750
Rickie Weeks+1000
As usual, in these types of events it's best to look for somewhat of a longshot. The bet is essentially a crapshoot, so why try to hit with one of the favorites?
With that in mind, I'll take a stab on Adrian Gonzalez with a bit smaller play on Matt Kemp. Both are familiar with the ballpark, as Gonzalez spent years with the Padres and Kemp visits there frequently with his Dodgers.
Remember, this is essentially a fun ordeal for the players and should be for you, the bettor, as well.
