World Series 2017 odds: Dodgers betting favorites against Astros on series lines

The Los Angeles Dodgers are 13-2 straight up and on the runline over their last 15 games, including a 7-1 run through the 2017 postseason so far. The red-hot Dodgers will host the Houston Astros in Game 1 of the World Series on Tuesday.

Los Angeles is going off at -170 to win the World Series at sportsbooks monitored by OddsShark.com, with Houston paying +150 to win the series. The odds for Game 1 are virtually the same, with Clayton Kershaw taking the mound for Los Angeles as a -166 favorite over Dallas Keuchel and the Astros at +156.

During a disastrous stretch at the end of August and into the beginning of September, the Dodgers lost 16 of 17 games. This may have been just what the doctor ordered for Los Angeles, which needed to overcome some adversity and refocus after going 91-36 up to that point. Timing is key in the postseason, and the Dodgers are clearly peaking at the right time, outscoring their opponents 48 to 19 thus far.

While Kershaw’s reputation in postseason play isn’t strong, the Dodgers ace has led the team to a 7-1 record in his last eight playoff starts.

Houston enters this series in the underdog role despite finishing the regular season at 101-61, just three fewer wins than the Dodgers. During the regular season, the Astros led the majors in runs with 5.53 per game and batting average at .282 while finishing second in home runs.

Trade deadline acquisition Justin Verlander has been sensational, compiling a 1.23 ERA and a 0.77 WHIP in eight starts with the Astros. Houston is 15-5 in its last 20 games against NL opponents.

This one has the makings of a great World Series. The value appears to be on Houston’s side given the price, but it’s difficult to blame backers for getting on board with this Dodgers club. Bettors who have a strong lean on Game 1 should consider betting their team on the series price as well, as it will change drastically after the series opener has been decided.