What's at stake

Which team wins the game and by how many runs will determine moneyline and multiple run-line payouts.

Over/under markets at 9.5, 8.5, 7.5, 6.5, 5.5 and lower settle whether the game is high- or low-scoring.

Who's in play

Starting pitchers and their bullpens set the pace; early runs or long outings change run-line probabilities quickly.

Hitters, defensive replacements, and managers' choices on when to burn relievers also decide final margin and total.

What drives it

Pitching matchups, handedness, and recent starter form heavily influence strikeout, walk, and run expectations across innings.

Weather, park dimensions, recent bullpen workload, lineup protection, and in-game injuries or scratches shift odds and run totals midgame.

What to watch

Probable pitchers and official lineups announced before first pitch are the clearest pregame signals for run-line and total markets.

Also monitor weather radar, first-inning scoring, bullpen warmups, and any unexpected scratches; those developments can flip run-line and totals fast.