How to Bet on the MLB All-Star Game: A Complete Guide to Baseball’s Midseason Classic
The MLB All-Star Game is more than just a break in the schedule—it’s a high-profile, one-night-only showcase of baseball’s biggest stars. While it’s technically an exhibition, it still offers a wide range of betting opportunities for fans looking to add a little more excitement to the Midsummer Classic.
From moneylines to MVP picks, betting on the All-Star Game requires a different mindset than regular-season wagering. Here’s how to bet on the MLB All-Star Game, including what markets are available, what trends to watch, and how to find value.
⚾ What Is the MLB All-Star Game?
The All-Star Game is an annual exhibition between the American League (AL) and National League (NL), typically played in mid-July. The rosters are stacked with top performers from the first half of the season, and the game rotates host cities each year.
Though once tied to postseason implications (from 2003–2016, the winner earned home-field advantage in the World Series), it’s now a pure exhibition—but one that players still take pride in.
💵 How to Bet on the MLB All-Star Game
1. Moneyline
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Pick a winner between the AL and NL.
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Example:
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AL -115
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NL -105
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Historically, the American League has dominated this matchup in recent decades.
2. Over/Under (Total Runs)
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Bet on the combined total runs scored in the game.
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Example: O/U 7.5
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These games are often low-scoring, especially early on when the top pitchers are on the mound.
3. Run Line
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Similar to a spread: one team gets -1.5 or +1.5 runs.
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Example:
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AL -1.5 (+160)
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NL +1.5 (-180)
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4. MVP Winner
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Bet on which player will win the All-Star Game MVP award.
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Long odds = high upside.
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Tip: Bet on players likely to get multiple at-bats (top of the order) or relief pitchers who might dominate a short inning.
5. Player Props
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Depending on the sportsbook, you may see props like:
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Will a player hit a home run?
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Total hits + runs + RBIs
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First player to record a hit
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Pitcher strikeouts (short outings—be careful)
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6. Live Betting
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Once the game starts, you can wager on updated odds for game winner, inning totals, and next team to score.
📈 Historical Betting Trends
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American League Dominance:
The AL won 25 of the last 33 All-Star Games (as of 2023), including an impressive 13-game win streak from 1997–2009. -
Low-Scoring Games:
The All-Star Game often features elite pitchers facing unfamiliar hitters. Unders have historically performed well. -
Pitching Matters Early:
Starters typically pitch just 1 inning, which makes early innings tough for hitters. Later innings, when lesser-known arms come in, may offer more offense.
✅ Pros of Betting the All-Star Game
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National Spotlight: It’s one of the only nights on the calendar with no other major sports.
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Star Power: You’re betting on the best of the best—no minor leaguers, no bad rotations.
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Creative Props: MVP bets, first home run, first hit, etc., provide fun, high-upside options.
❌ Cons of Betting the All-Star Game
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Unpredictable Playing Time: Starters often leave early. Later players may get more ABs.
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No Bullpen Strategy: Managers rotate pitchers quickly, making it hard to forecast matchups.
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Exhibition Nature: Some players treat it more seriously than others. Motivation is hard to quantify.
🧠 Betting Tips for the All-Star Game
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Lean Unders Early: Top pitchers dominate the first few innings. First 5 innings under is often a strong play.
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Fade Big Names in MVP Markets: The value is in players batting cleanup or entering mid-game when pitchers are less dominant.
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Check Weather & Park Factors: If it’s in a hitter-friendly stadium (like Coors Field), consider betting the Over or long-shot HR props.
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Look for Live Edges: After a few innings, you can often get a better read on who’s staying in the game longer.
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Diversify With Small Bets: Treat it like the Super Bowl—spread small wagers across MVP, props, and sides for entertainment.
🧾 Sample Betting Card
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AL Moneyline (-115)
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Under 7.5 runs (-110)
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MVP: Francisco Lindor
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First home run: Freddie Freeman
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Over 1.5 runs in the 7th inning
🏁 Final Thoughts
The MLB All-Star Game is the ultimate blend of star power and spectacle—and it’s a unique opportunity for baseball bettors. While it’s not as predictable or data-rich as a regular-season game, it can be a lot of fun with the right mix of smart plays and prop bets.
Focus on matchups, motivation, and game flow, and don’t be afraid to sprinkle across several markets. When done right, betting the All-Star Game can be just as exciting as watching it.