Seeing a drastic change in MLB games when the bullpen takes over is a common occurrence. One of the most popular wagers is the first five innings bet.

Known as the F5 bet, this wager lets you hone in on a particular portion of the game, make your bets, and then have your bet slip assessed solely on the outcomes of those innings. In this article, we will break down how the F5 bet works so you can utilize it in your baseball betting tactics.

What are first five innings bets?

One additional betting feature offered at legal and regulated sportsbooks is the ability to place wagers on the first five innings of an MLB game. This option can usually be found by browsing through the individual game listings.

This bet is based solely on the first five innings of the baseball game. Bettors are tasked with predicting which team will be in the lead at the end of the fifth inning. Any events that occur after the fifth inning will not impact the result of this bet.

One of the options available is a tie, and sportsbooks will assign odds to each choice in every situation.

MLB betting odds explained

To understand the mechanics of the F5 bet, it is essential to have a good understanding of how MLB odds work. Each game on the schedule will have a listing that looks like the following:

Team	Run line	Moneyline	Total
New York Mets	+1.5 (+110)	+135	O 8.0 (-110)
Chicago Cubs	-1.5 (-130)	-155	U 8.0 (-110)

In this imagined matchup, the Mets are facing off against the Cubs at their home stadium. The typical MLB bets – run line, moneyline, and totals – are available for both teams. In this scenario, the odds are in favor of the Cubs on both the run line and moneyline, with a projected total of eight runs.

To make a bet, click on the box corresponding to your choice. This will automatically add it to your bet slip. Then, enter your bet amount and double-check that all the details are correct before clicking submit.

Odds for MLB F5 bets 

The first five innings’ betting odds function like a moneyline bet, with sportsbooks establishing a favored team and an underdog. Narrow margins signal close matchups, while significant differences hint at potential mismatches.

The outcome of the first five innings is heavily impacted by the early game dynamics, giving a significant edge to the strong favorites. The starting pitchers have a major influence on these bets, with teams boasting top pitchers being more likely to have favorable odds.

For example, consider a hypothetical situation in which the Los Angeles Dodgers are facing off against the San Francisco Giants with Clayton Kershaw on the mound. The Giants have Kevin Gausman set to pitch, who is a solid player but not quite at the same level as Kershaw. In this scenario, the F5 wager odds for the game might look like this:

San Francisco Giants +190

Los Angeles Dodgers -240

In this scenario, the Dodgers are the favored team. However, if the Giants are able to take the lead in the first five innings, the book is ready to provide a substantial payout. The odds will be adjusted based on betting patterns after the initial release.

Placing more money on San Francisco could further tighten the odds, while a surge of bets on Los Angeles could widen the gap even more. Remember, you can always shop around for the best prices.

For example, PointsBet may offer -250 odds for the Dodgers, while BetRivers Sportsbook could reduce it to -220. The same trend would be seen for the Giants, but in the opposite direction.

Shopping on separate lines can emphasize these small differences that can add up over time.

How do you place a first five innings bet in Illinois?

Placing bets on online sportsbooks and using betting apps in Illinois is a simple process. The first step is to choose a matchup by clicking on the MLB link on the sportsbook. This will take you to a betting lobby where you can see all the upcoming games.

Initially, the listing will display odds for the top three bet types, but there are also more options available. By clicking on the game listing, you will find additional betting opportunities, such as the first five innings bet. The odds for this F5 bet may be represented as follows:

Boston Red Sox +155

New York Yankees -175

Once you have decided, click on the box that corresponds to your choice. For example, if you support the Yankees, click on the box with odds of -175. Your selection will be added to your betting slip. Next, enter the amount you want to bet, review all details for accuracy, and then proceed to place your bet.

Rules for the first five innings bet

Illinois sportsbooks have specific regulations for placing and settling bets, with some exceptions in certain situations. It’s important to know the rules when betting on the first five innings.

• After the game begins, all bets are in play.
• If a game is cancelled or delayed, the bet may be considered null and void unless the game is completed within a specified timeframe, such as 24 hours.
• If a F5 bet does not offer the option to bet on a tie, any game ending in a tie after five innings will result in a “push”, with all bets being refunded.
• Sportsbooks use official league data to determine the outcome of bets.

These rules cover most of the important considerations for F5 betting, but there may be occasional anomalies to watch out for. It’s a good idea to review the specific house rules of different sportsbooks, as they may handle these situations differently.

MLB F5 bets vs. moneyline bets

Both moneyline bets and first five inning bets have their advantages and it can be argued that each has its own merits. Moneyline bets may offer more value in certain situations, while first five inning bets can help minimize the impact of relief pitchers, for example.

On the other hand, a moneyline bet that initially looks like a win can quickly turn around if the bullpen falters. Likewise, an MLB first five innings bet that appears solid can turn sour if the star pitcher fails to deliver.

In conclusion, there is no clear winner between the two types of bets. Both can be useful in an MLB handicapping strategy, so it is important to weigh the benefits of each before making a decision. In some cases, it may make sense to place both types of bets.

Are there any other MLB inning bets to consider?

The F5 bet is quickly becoming a popular choice for betting on Major League Baseball (MLB), but there are other options to explore. You can find various game segments to wager on in the “More Wagers” section of a book’s game listings.

• First inning only
• First three innings
• First seven innings

Each option has its own pros and cons, and there is no clear indication that one is consistently better than the other. When considering situations where they are suitable, betting on the first or first three innings may be a viable option for teams that are excelling or beginning games strongly.

Betting on the first seven innings can be a smart move if you have confidence in the starting pitchers and middle relievers for both teams. Just like deciding between the F5 and moneyline bets, it’s crucial to weigh the pros and cons of each option. In some cases, it may make sense to place multiple bets on inning wagers in certain games.

MLB first five inning bet examples

The concept of betting on the first five innings, although not new, has seen a sudden rise in popularity due to the increasing legalization of sports betting in the US and the ongoing efforts of handicappers to find any possible edge.

Understanding and mastering first five innings bets is not as simple as it may seem at first glance. It takes practice and skill to successfully handicap these bets. To assist you in improving your betting strategy, we will offer some helpful tips.

Now, let’s explore some examples to grasp how this type of bet works. Imagine there is an exciting AL West game scheduled and the F5 odds are displayed like this:

Houston Astros -125

Oakland Athletics +105

If you bet on the Astros and they are leading after the initial five innings, you win regardless of the margin. Whether the lead is narrow or wide, as long as Houston is ahead, bettors secure a victory.

The narrow betting odds for this bet could indicate a potential pitcher’s duel. In contrast, if the odds were wider, it might suggest that bookmakers expect a one-sided matchup, such as in a National League West game.

Arizona Diamondbacks +170

San Diego Padres -200

In this situation, the Padres are the clear favorites. If you bet on them and they are winning after five innings, you will win. But if the Diamondbacks are leading at the halfway point, your bet would be unsuccessful.

While the potential return should not be the sole consideration when making betting decisions, it can certainly impact the appeal of F5 bets. A heavy favorite may not offer a substantial return, whereas a significant underdog might yield a more enticing payout.

When analyzing a series of games and reviewing the F5 options, you can pinpoint standout choices on either end of the spectrum as well as those that are appealing in between. By doing this, you can narrow down your focus to a select few matchups to determine the top F5 options for the day. Additionally, we will offer further advice on evaluating games.

Calculating payouts for first five innings bets

Payouts for bets placed on the first five innings will be determined based on the odds. Various methods can be used to calculate this, so let’s start with a basic mathematical approach. Use the following formulas to estimate returns based on the odds, ensuring to take the absolute value in situations where the odds are negative:

Negative Odds: Bet Amount / (Odds/100) = Profit

Positive Odds: Bet Amount * (Odds/100) = Profit

Additionally, there is a simple way to determine potential returns. When the odds are negative, it represents the amount required to wager in order to make a $100 profit. For example, if the odds are -130, you would need to bet $130 to earn a profit of $100.

Positive odds indicate the potential profit on a $100 winning bet. For example, if the odds for the desired side in the first five innings are +145, you would receive $145 on a winning bet of $100.

Don’t forget, sportsbooks will display the potential profits of your bets as you enter them into the slip and input your wager amount. While you can use this tool to consider various outcomes, make sure you are fully ready to place your bet before confirming it to avoid any accidental wagers.

You can access online handicapping calculators for free to input your wager amount and odds in order to calculate your potential return.

Handicapping first five innings bets

The increasing trend of wagering on the first five innings does not guarantee immediate financial success. Like all types of sports betting, achieving consistent results takes time, effort, and dedication. Below are some tips to help you thrive:

• Carefully analyze the starting pitcher matchup: When it comes to F5 betting, the starting pitcher matchup plays a significant role in determining the outcome. Therefore, it is important to thoroughly investigate this aspect. It is not enough to just look at overall season statistics. It is essential to also look at recent starts and past performances against the opposing team.
• Take extra time to review recent performances: During the long MLB season, teams go through ups and downs. It’s important to take advantage of opportunities and avoid teams that may be on a downward trend. Analyzing the last three games can help you understand the current situation, especially when predicting which batters will have a strong beginning.
• Look for value on the betting board: When there is a significant mismatch in the game, it will be obvious on the board. Betting on the favorites may not result in a big payout. While it’s important to take profits when you can, keep an eye out for better value opportunities that could boost your overall earnings.

While a handicapping plan may contribute to sustained success in the long run, it is important to consider other factors as well. To minimize the risk of significant setbacks, keep in mind these three essential points:

• Only Bet on Select Games: Avoid betting on every game in the lineup, as this can be risky, especially on days when luck may not be on your side. Instead, carefully analyze the schedule and choose the games that you feel most confident about. Focus your attention and energy on those select games rather than spreading yourself too thin.
• It is important to stick to a budget when betting on sports. The main goal is to make a profit, so it is crucial to be consistent in your strategy, results, and bankroll. Set a specific budget for each F5 bet that you feel comfortable with and make sure to follow it. Avoid the urge to increase your bets too soon.
• Dealing with Losses in Sports Betting: Losses are a natural part of sports betting and it’s important to not dwell on them or try to make up for them with risky bets. Instead, try to learn from your losses and accept them as part of the game. If you find yourself on a losing streak, take the time to reevaluate your strategy and make any necessary changes.

What to remember about first five innings bets

The F5 bet, also known as the first five innings bet, is gaining popularity among MLB bettors as they aim to predict which team will be in the lead after the first five innings.

Just like any bet with two possible outcomes, there will be odds displayed for each side. These numbers are subject to change depending on betting trends, but it is always a good idea to shop around different sportsbooks to ensure you are getting the most favorable odds.

One important factor to consider when handicapping the first five innings is the starting pitchers’ matchup. This is attractive because it focuses less on the impact of bullpens on the game’s outcome.