Baseball Rule Differences
Just like tennis, baseball comes with certain rule complexities that can vary between bookies. If you are hedging your baseball bets, by either laying or dutching, it is important to keep these in mind. If there are rule differences between the bookies (or Betfair) you could potentially lose both sides of the bet.
Unlike tennis, the baseball rules cannot be broken down into neat categories. There are multiple rules, and multiple variations on those rules, between bookies. You can find a summary of each one in the Bookies Library.
Below is a short overview of key rules and how they are applied.
Nominated Pitcher Rule: This rule relates to when a specific pitcher is chosen for the H2H (also known as money line) market. Variations of this rule include:
The bet stands, regardless of the nominated pitcher.
The bet is void if the nominated pitcher changes.
The bet stands regardless of the nominated pitcher unless otherwise specified.
The bet is void if the nominated pitcher changes unless otherwise specified.
The last two points require you to verify specific market rules or ensure that the market has provided a nominated pitcher.
5 or 4.5 Innings Rule:
This rule determines when a bet is valid (also known as "to have action"). It is yes/no rule with possible variations relating to different innings totals such as 7 or 6.5 innings. This rule states that a match officially begins, and a winner can be declared, after 5 innings or 4.5 innings if the home team is leading. If the game hasn't reached this point, it could be considered suspended, leading to suspension rules being applied.
Suspension Rule:
This rule decides the time duration a match can be suspended before the bet is declared void. Variations are time-based, where bookies can take anywhere between 12-72 hours before voiding, with some exceptions like "must be the next calendar day" or no voiding on playoff games.
Extra Innings Rule:
This rule determines if the extra innings are included in the final result, similar to whether an NRL game includes overtime and/or golden point.
Double Headers Rule:
A double header occurs when the same team plays two games on the same day, often due to a previous game being postponed or shortened. This is important to keep in mind, particularly when using the back/lay method. Ensure your bets are placed on the right match as it might not be clear which game is first and which is second. This rule is a yes/no rule, either all standard rules (ie. 5 or 4.5 innings rule) for that bookie apply, or it's stated that all innings must be completed for the bet to stand.
Extra points to note:
Some bookies may have league specific rules, or rules that apply to all baseball except MLB. These will be largely irrelevant in terms of using the dutching software, but something to be aware of when using non-main markets.
As you can see, matched betting and arbitrage on baseball markets can have a degree of risk that is not found on other sports. Please ensure that you are familiar with the rules of each bookie, and comfortable with the risks, before placing any bets.