The Los Angeles Dodgers have once again been tabbed as the early favorites to win the 2027 World Series, according to odds released by DraftKings Sportsbook. This marks the eighth consecutive year the Dodgers have opened as favorites. The Milwaukee Brewers, fresh off their first World Series title in franchise history, are listed with the second-best odds.
2027 World Series Odds
DraftKings has set the Dodgers at +310 to win the 2027 title. The Brewers, who won a franchise-record 103 games and made a deep playoff run before claiming the championship, are at +500. The New York Yankees, a perennial contender, are third with odds of +700. Other American League contenders include the Boston Red Sox (11/1) and Seattle Mariners (18/1), while the Philadelphia Phillies are also at 18/1.
The Dodgers' consistent performance is underscored by their recent history. They have won three World Series titles in the past seven years and secured the NL West for the fifth consecutive season and 13th time in the last 14 years. The team also achieved its sixth 100-plus win season in the past decade, finishing the most recent campaign at 100-62.
Contrasting Payrolls and Success
The Brewers' recent championship, achieved with the MLB's 19th-ranked payroll of $146.2 million, stands in contrast to the Dodgers' $339.3 million payroll. This disparity raises questions about the formula for success in Major League Baseball, particularly with the current collective bargaining agreement set to expire on December 2.
Key to the Brewers' success was the performance of pitcher Jacob Misiorowski, who is expected to contend for his first Cy Young award. He led the league in ERA, strikeouts, and WHIP, while averaging a record 100.5 mph on his fastball. The Brewers' bullpen was also a significant strength. However, their main unrestricted free agent, first baseman Jake Bauers, who was a key offensive contributor, may price himself out of a return.
The Dodgers, despite a star-studded rotation, battled injuries throughout the season. Shohei Ohtani's health was a recurring issue, extending into the postseason. While the core of the Dodgers' rotation is expected to return, two-time Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal will become an unrestricted free agent.
The Tampa Bay Rays, who reached the World Series through a strategy of small ball, bunting, plate discipline, and stolen bases, are not highly regarded by oddsmakers for a repeat performance, opening at 22/1. The Yankees, who have reached the postseason in nine of the last ten years, finished third in the odds.
New York manager Aaron Boone is expected to return for his 10th season, having guided the team to 93 wins despite significant injuries, including a lengthy absence for star player Aaron Judge. The Yankees' postseason ended with an ALDS sweep by Tampa Bay.