The NL East will be top heavy in terms of competition, at least between the Braves and
Phillies. Atlanta is coming off a huge regular season in 2023 but fell way short of
expectations in the postseason. They look to right the wrongs of yesteryear but the
perennial thorn in their side out of Pennsylvania remains an ever looming threat to their
play at the top of the division.
Atlanta Braves (-260)
Having won the division in each of the past six seasons, Atlanta is expected to run away
with the NL East once again. They’re coming off of consecutive 100+ win seasons but
were bounced by the Phillies in the NLDS both years. Anything less than a World Series
title would be a massive disappointment. When it comes to top tier talent, Atlanta is
stacked with players in their prime. In terms of NL MVP betting favourites, the Braves
carry three players that are featured in the top 10 on betonline.ag. That includes the
outright favourite, Ronald Acuna Jr. who is listed at +400.
Philadelphia Phillies (+350)
Despite not doing much in terms of free agent signings during the offseason, the Phillies
are looked at to be a contender this season. On offense, they’re led by the ever potent
Bryce Harper and Trea Turner who will lead the way as they aim to forget losing the
NLCS at home to Arizona last season. With a front three that includes a re-upped Aaron
Nola, Zack Wheeler and Ranger Suarez, the Phillies looked to be dialed in when it
comes to the work on the mound. Philly hasn’t won a division title since 2011 but with a
team that should be bound for the postseason one way or another, don’t be surprised if
they give the Braves a run for their money.
New York Mets (+650)
With both Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander gone, Kodai Senga enters his sophomore
season expected to take another step as a true ace. That being said, he’ll be playing
from behind the eight-ball as he’ll miss some time due to a shoulder strain. They’re
hoping that their new editions in Luis Severino, Sean Manaea and Adrian Houser can
regain form after sub-par 2023 seasons. If they’re in the mix around the trade deadline,
expect them to be buyers as they look to make the most of Pete Alonso’s last year
under contract before he hits free-agency.
Odds to Win the 2024 NL East
Atlanta Braves -260
Philadelphia Phillies +350
New York Mets +650
Miami Marlins +1600
Washington Nationals +5000