The World Baseball Classic returns Wednesday after a six-year hiatus. It features many of the game’s giants, including Mike Trout (USA), Shohei Ohtani (Japan) and Manny Machado (Dominican Republic).
The D.R. is favored (+200), followed by the Stars ‘n’ Stripes (+275), who look to defend their title. Japan is also +275, followed by South Korea (+1200) and Venezuela (+1200).
Let’s dig deeper for some value plays:
⚾ Mexico (+1800): Ace Julio Urias is nasty, and Rays outfielder Randy Arozarena, a Cuban-born Mexican citizen, anchors a potent lineup.
⚾ Puerto Rico (+2200): Edwin Diaz gives Team P.R. a huge advantage by shortening games.
⚾ Cuba (+3300): A bit light on arms, but they can mash with Yoenis Cespedes, Yoan Moncada and Luis Robert.