MLB Futures: Best Odds & Bets for 2022 Rookie of the Year
The MLB is still playing games with service time manipulation. Wander Franco would’ve won the award last year if he was in the majors a lot sooner. Instead, Randy Arozarena, who started on the opening day roster, won the award after getting a whole lot of playing time in the playoffs in the previous season.
It’s a corrupt award and sometimes the best rookie doesn’t win the award because of the fact that the player doesn’t get enough games under his belt. That’s the business and we’ve got to work around that. Here are the top Rookie of the Year candidates in the NL and AL for 2022.
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National League
Seiya Suzuki (+500)
Seiya Suzuki isn’t really a rookie. He starred in Japan and played so well that he now has the opportunity to play in the MLB. Suzuki signed with the Cubs after playing nine seasons in the NPB. He hit .315 in the league with 182 home runs and 562 RBIs.
The hope is that Suzuki hits like Ohtani. He’s got speed, can hit for average, and has plenty of pop with his bat. Ultimately, if Suzuki hits 25 home runs, as projected by many outlets, he’s going to win the award.
Bet: Seiya Suzuki (+500) at Caesars
Hunter Greene (+900)
It’s never easy for a pitcher to win the award, but with Hunter Greene starting the season in the starting rotation, there’s reason to believe Greene can win the award.
He had a 3.30 ERA between double and triple-A last season and also had a 1.17 WHIP with a 139/39 strikeout to walk ratio. Greene is a top prospect in the Reds system and will be given every opportunity to succeed this season. Ultimately, the Reds likely won’t be competing for the playoffs this season. Therefore, even if Greene has a tough time early, Greene will still pitch for the Reds and continue to make strides. It matters how you finish.
Bet: Hunter Green (+900) at Caesars
American League
Bobby Witt Jr. (+300)
Bobby Witt Jr. will most likely get to start third base for the Kansas City Royals on Opening Day. Usually, when a rookie gets the opportunity to start the first day of the season, it’s helpful. Not only will Witt play third base, but he’s also projected to bat second in the Royals lineup behind Whit Merrifield and in front of Salvador Perez. That’s some insane protection for the rookie.
He’s already been so clutch in Spring Training. Expectations are getting a bit higher now.
Bet: Bobby Witt Jr. (+300) at Caesars
Jeremy Pena (+1400)
Jeremy Pena is taking over shortstop after the Astros lost out on Carlos Correa in the off-season. Pena has been clutch and has shown no signs of slowing down. What’s even better is that it looks like Pena could be the lead-off hitter for the Astros. He’s already led off multiple times in Spring Training.
Pena could be a 15 home run guy with a solid average. Walks might be harder to come by but he’s a project that could become something much bigger as the season progresses.
Bet: Jeremy Pena (+1400) at Caesars
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Jason Radowitz is a featured writer at BettingPros. For more from Jason, check out his archive and follow him @Jason_Radowitz.