2023 MLB Futures Picks: Yankees, Mets are World Series contenders

Karl Rasmussen
By , Updated on: Jan 16, 2023 07:00 PM
2023 MLB Futures Picks: Yankees, Mets are World Series contenders

The Houston Astros were crowned champions of the 2022 MLB season after defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series. All 30 teams made moves in the offseason gearing up for the 2023 campaign. Among the most active teams during the offseason were the New York Yankees and New York Mets, both of whom have World Series aspirations in 2023. With an important season looming for both teams, we're going to take a look at the Yankees and Mets' 2023 World Series odds.

Before we dive into the MLB Futures betting action, make sure to check out our MLB betting guide, as well as our World Series betting tips, both of which offer plenty of sound advice for wagering on baseball.

2023 World Series Odds

BovadaOdds to Win World Series
Astros+625
Mets+650
Yankees+750
Dodgers+850
Padres+900
Braves+1100
Blue Jays+1400
Phillies+1800
Mariners+1800
Cardinals+2200

Early on, both the Mets and Yankees can make strong cases to be considered World Series favorites. The books consider the Astros to be the top dogs, but the Mets are second, and the Yankees are third. A Subway Series in October would be a sight to behold, and this could very well be the year it happens for the first time since 2000.

Heading into the season, only 10 teams have 2023 World Series odds lower than (+2200). The Houston Astros are expected to repeat as champions early on, entering the year with (+650) odds, while the Mets and Yankees are hot on their heels at (+650+ and (+750), respectively. The San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers are also considered contenders in the 2023 MLB season, rounding out the top five.

Why Yankees Can Win 2023 World Series

After making it to the ALCS last season, it never truly felt as if the Yankees stood much of a chance against the Astros. That was evidenced on the field, too, as the Astros made quick work of the Yankees, brushing them aside in a four-game sweep. Now, the Yankees will be determined to rewrite their disappointing end to last year, during which they got off to a historically hot start.

The New York Yankees have arguably the best pitching rotation in all of MLB. After acquiring Carlos Rodon during the offseason, the Yankees' starting rotation now consists of Gerrit Cole, Rodon, Nestor Cortes, Luis Severino, and Frankie Montas. There's arguably no rotation that's deeper than what the Yankees will be rolling with in 2023, and there's a chance there are more moves yet to come.

After securing the contract extension of Aaron Judge, the Yankees are ready to compete for a World Series. Left field remains a question mark for the team, as does the shortstop position, but there's plenty of talent on the roster, and if some key players can return to 100 percent strength, there's no reason the Yankees won't be playing deep into October.

A lineup consisting of Giancarlo Stanton, Anthony Rizzo, Gleyber Torres, DJ LeMahieu, Judge, and Jose Trevino is nothing to scoff at. If those players can stay healthy, and the Yankees can take care of business with their bullpen in later innings, they should win the AL East outright and can turn their sights towards the World Series.

Judge is coming off a historic season during which he launched 62 home runs, setting both a Yankees' franchise and American League record. While a repeat of that campaign is improbable, Judge figures to be an MVP favorite once again, leading the charge for what will hopefully be the first Yankees' World Series-winning campaign since 2009.

Yankees To win 2023 World Series
+750
Bovada

Why Mets Can Win 2023 World Series

Steve Cohen didn't hesitate to spend the big bucks this offseason, acquiring some key pieces and extending the contracts of some others, including Brandon Nimmo and Edwin Diaz, both of whom figure to play big roles in 2023. In addition to those two returning stars, reigning Cy Young winner Justin Verlander and Japanese import Kodai Senga are both joining the Mets' starting rotation, alongside veteran lefty Jose Quintana.

Their starting pitching rotation figures to consist of Max Scherzer, Verlander, Senga, Carlos Carrasco, and Quintana. Edwin Diaz will continue to spearhead the bullpen after recording 32 saves with a 1.31 ERA in 2022.

The Mets had World Series aspirations last season, but ultimately fell short of their goals, losing in the National League Wild Card series against the San Diego Padres in three games. After spending big in the offseason to upgrade their pitching staff, and nearly coming to terms with Carlos Correa, the Mets will be honing in on a World Series in 2023. Nothing short of a cha

With a lineup already consisting of stars such as Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, Nimmo, and Starling Marte, among others, the Mets are one of the most complete teams in baseball, loaded in virtually every area. They'll be a difficult team to beat, though the Braves (+1100) should put up a solid fight in the division. Still, with the experienced Buck Showalter leading the charge in Queens, there's reason to believe the Mets can win their first World Series since 1986.

New York Mets To win 2023 World Series
+650
Bovada

Before diving into the World Series betting action, make sure to check out our top sportsbook reviews in order to find the best site for your betting needs.

Meet the author

Karl Rasmussen

Karl Rasmussen leverages his journalism degree and passion for sports in his expert coverage of Major League Soccer (MLS) and fantasy leagues. Hailing from Denmark but a longtime resident of the Pacific Northwest, Karl brings an international perspective to his analysis...

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