Will Mookie Betts' return make Dodgers a bigger World Series favorite?

The Los Angeles Dodgers have been betting favorites to win the 2024 World Series for most of the season. However, many fans have been putting their money elsewhere when they place their bets for the Fall Classic. Will the return of one of their best players change that?

Los Angeles announced Monday that former Gold Glove winner Mookie Betts has been activated from the injured list after being sidelined since June 17 with a fractured wrist. The return of one of baseball's best players should be a boost for the Dodgers, who are a favorite at sportsbooks but only drawing in the third-most handle.

According to BetMGM's John Ewing, the Philadelphia Phillies and Baltimore Orioles are more popular among bettors than the Dodgers. The Phillies, who have the same record as the Dodgers but recently won two of three games down in Los Angeles, are currently the favorite among bettors.

Los Angeles is listed at +325 at BetMGM to win the World Series in October. They are followed by the Phillies (+450), the New York Yankees (+550) and the Orioles (+700).

The Dodgers have a 26-20 record this season without Betts in the lineup according to StatMuse , and a 43-29 record when he is active. Betts, who is expected to bat second and play in right field upon returning, is slashing .304/.405/.488 with 10 home runs and 40 RBI on 86 hits in 2024.