Major League Baseball
As we near the one-quarter mark of the 2026 MLB season, parity has been the defining theme. Teams that were expected to struggle—such as the Rockies, Nationals, and Cardinals—have proven to be resilient and competitive. In the American League, only four teams enter Tuesday night’s action with a record above .500, and the current division leaders (Rays, Guardians, Athletics) have all surprised to some degree.
If the playoffs started today, the White Sox would claim a wild-card spot despite a losing record. Even the mighty Dodgers haven’t fully asserted their dominance, trailing the first-place Padres in the National League West. Meanwhile, the National League Central stands out with five teams above .500, and within that division, I see a betting opportunity with strong value.
Pirates manager Don Kelly is currently listed at +600 odds (bet $10 to win $70 total) for National League Manager of the Year. These awards often hinge on the best story, with expectations playing a major role. The Pirates last reached the postseason as a wild-card team from 2013 to 2015 and haven’t won a playoff series since the 1979 World Series.
Currently sitting at 22-19, Pittsburgh looks like a legitimate playoff contender, anchored by NL Cy Young favorite Paul Skenes. While Braves manager Walt Weiss and Cubs manager Craig Counsell have shorter odds, both oversee teams with higher payrolls and loftier preseason expectations. The Cubs were division favorites entering the year, and the Braves rebounded from a down 2025 campaign after nearly a decade of sustained success.
The Pirates have +140 odds to make the playoffs, and if they secure a berth, Kelly would likely become the frontrunner for this award. Given Pittsburgh’s status as one of the least successful major sports franchises over the past few decades, a return to the postseason would resonate strongly with voters.
**Pick:** Don Kelly (+600) to win NL Manager of the Year
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