Spring Training games are unpredictable, with teams prioritizing player evaluation over winning, but that uncertainty can create value for sharp bettors who do their homework.
Understanding Spring Training Baseball
Unlike the grind of the 162-game regular season, Spring Training is all about getting players ready. The 30 MLB teams are divided into two leagues based on geography:
Grapefruit League – Teams train and play in Florida.
Cactus League – Teams train and play in Arizona.
These games allow managers to assess young prospects, fine-tune lineups, and get a look at their pitching staff. That means results don’t always matter—coaches might pull their starters early, experiment with different lineups, or test out relievers in high-leverage situations.
Key Betting Differences from the Regular Season
Before diving in, here are a few critical differences between Spring Training and regular-season MLB betting:
Starters Play Limited Innings – Top players often only see 1-3 at-bats before being replaced by backups.
Pitching Rotations Are Unpredictable – A starting pitcher might only throw one or two innings before the bullpen takes over.
Winning Isn’t Everything – Managers prioritize evaluating talent over securing victories.
Smaller Betting Markets – Sportsbooks offer limited options, with moneylines and run totals being the most common bets available.
Learn more about betting on baseball.
Strategies for Betting on Spring Training
To maximize your edge, you need a game plan. Here’s how to bet smart during Spring Training:
Follow Team News Closely
Spring Training lineups can change drastically from game to game. Some teams will give their starters more playing time later in camp, while others experiment throughout. Check pregame reports, lineups, and pitching rotations before placing your bets.
Understand Pitching Plans
Unlike the regular season, where starters go deep into games, Spring Training sees a revolving door of pitchers. Many aces will only throw a couple of innings early in camp, making bullpen depth a key factor. A team’s later-inning relievers (often minor leaguers) could be the difference between a win and a loss.
Bet Early in the Day
Lines for Spring Training games can move quickly, especially when starting lineups are announced. If you spot a good number early, locking in your bet before the market adjusts can be a solid strategy.
Consider Motivation Factors
Some teams care more about Spring Training results than others. Younger rosters with players fighting for a spot in the majors tend to play harder. Veteran-heavy teams might be more relaxed, focusing on preparation over wins. Understanding a team’s approach can give you an edge.
Pay Attention to Weather
Spring Training games take place in Florida and Arizona, where wind and heat can impact play. Wind blowing out in Arizona’s dry climate can turn routine fly balls into home runs, making overs more attractive. Florida’s humid air, on the other hand, can suppress scoring.
Popular Spring Training Betting Markets
Even though sportsbooks offer fewer options than regular-season games, there are still ways to get action:
Moneyline Bets – Picking a straight-up winner. Keep in mind that a team’s minor leaguers might determine the outcome.
Run Totals (Over/Under) – Betting on the total number of runs scored. With inconsistent pitching and defense, totals can be high.
First Five Innings Bets – A great option to focus on starters before teams dig into their bullpens.
Betting on Spring Training isn’t like betting on regular-season baseball—but that’s what makes it interesting. With a little research, an eye on team news, and a solid understanding of pitching plans, you can find edges where others aren’t looking. Just remember: bankroll management is key, and Spring Training is more about information than intuition.
