The 2020 MLB season is just 60 games, more than 100 games fewer than the typical season for the Boys of Summer.

While the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers are rightful favorites to meet for the title based on the latest 2020 World Series odds, a shorter season means the cream doesn’t have time to rise to the top – there a more true playoff contenders this year than any season in history.

One hot run could be all it takes for a real underdog to sneak into October.

The Cincinnati Reds fall into that category. The Reds went 75-87 last year, which doesn’t sound great, but it was the best season in Cincinnati since 2014. So, at least they appeared heading in the right direction.

At +2500 in the MLB futures market, the Reds are certainly considered a fringe contender to win it all. Here’s why Cincy is worth backing now before their MLB odds shrink.

CHECK OUT: Our Ultimate Guide To Betting The 2020 MLB Season

A Monster Offseason

Cincinnati didn’t exactly rewrite the record books in 2019. But there was no denying it showed an ascending level of play compared to seasons of recent past.

Then they went out and had a headline-making offseason, which included added slugging OF Mike Moustakas and middle-of-the-order masher Nick Castellanos, as well as Japanese standout Shogo Akiyama to lead off. They’ll all help Eugenio Suarez, who crushed 49 HRs and batted .271 despite also striking out 189 times.

Terrific Front-Line Of Rotation

Pitching has been the concern for the Reds, but when it comes to front-line starters, the Reds have the 1-2-3 combo to make noise in the playoffs. Trevor Bauer is a star, Luis Castillo has top-10 potential if he can stay consistent, and Sonny Gray is the Opening Day starter after registering a 2.87 ERA over 31 starts for the team last season.

Castillo is the x-factor of the group, but he started last season by going 5-1 with a 1.90 ERA in his first 10 starts. He might only get about 10-12 starts this season.

Reds 2020 World Series Outlook

In a balanced NL Central that doesn’t have a true leader in the clubhouse, the Reds have an opportunity to make a statement. If they get into the postseason, they have the tools to do damage and make a World Series run. Bet on the Reds now with BetMGM: