What Is a Run Line in Baseball Betting? How It Works and How to Read It

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Term

Run Line (Baseball)

Quick Summary

The run line is baseball’s version of a point spread. It applies a fixed 1.5-run handicap to both sides of a game. This guide explains how run lines differ from moneylines and traditional point spreads, how to read them on a sportsbook, and what the odds mean.

What Is a Run Line?

A run line is a 1.5-run spread applied to both teams in a baseball game. It introduces a margin of victory similar to point spread betting, which is otherwise uncommon in baseball due to its typically low-scoring outcomes.

Betting -1.5 means the team must win by 2 or more runs.

Betting +1.5 means the team can win outright or lose by exactly 1 run.

Run Line vs. Moneyline vs. Point Spread

Moneyline: Bet on which team wins, regardless of the score margin.

Point Spread: Variable margins used in sports like football and basketball.

Run Line: A fixed 1.5-run margin used in baseball to simulate a spread-style market.

Key Differences:

Run lines almost always use ±1.5 runs.

Run lines impact both risk and payout—favorites carry more risk but offer better odds, underdogs get a cushion but lower payout potential.

How to Read a Run Line Bet

Step 1: Choose a Game

Example:

San Francisco Giants vs. Los Angeles Dodgers on FanDuel.

Step 2: Find the Run Line Market

Under the “Spread” column, you’ll see odds listed like:

Giants +1.5 (-137)

Dodgers -1.5 (+114)

Step 3: Interpret the Line and Odds

+1.5 (-137): The Giants must win or lose by exactly 1 run. You need to bet $137 to win $100.

1.5 (+114): The Dodgers must win by 2+ runs. A $100 bet returns $114 profit.

Step 4: Choose Your Side

Consider whether you expect a close game or a more decisive win.

Your choice should be based on margin of victory rather than just winner.

Step 5: Place the Bet

Select the run line side.

Enter your stake.

Confirm the bet.

Note: Run line bets include extra innings unless otherwise stated.

Common Use Cases

Use the run line to reduce juice: Betting a heavy favorite at -1.5 provides better odds than the moneyline.

Get a cushion with underdogs: +1.5 can protect against narrow losses.

Applies to full 9 innings: Most run line bets are graded after regulation and any necessary extra innings.

Tips for Reading Run Lines More Effectively

Analyze team win margins: Some teams win consistently by 1 run, others win or lose big.

Evaluate bullpen strength: A strong bullpen may help hold a lead and cover -1.5.

Line shop: Odds like +120 vs. +114 on the same line add up over time.

Avoid extreme alternate lines without justification: Higher payouts often come with lower win probability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the run line always set at 1.5?

Yes, for standard markets. Alternate run lines (e.g., ±2.5) exist but are less common.

Is a run line better than a moneyline?

It depends. Run lines offer better odds on favorites but carry more risk. If you expect a close game, the moneyline may be safer.

Can I include a run line in a parlay?

Yes, run line bets are eligible for parlays, provided each leg covers the assigned spread.

Do all books price run lines the same?

No. Always compare odds across books to find the best price for the same side.

What does it mean to “run the line”?

This is slang for betting the run line instead of the moneyline.

Learn More

For more betting definitions and explanations of how odds and market mechanics work, explore the full educational archive at The Advantage.

What Is a Run Line in Baseball Betting?