What it is
A moneyline bet is a simple wager on which side will win a contest. Unlike a point spread, the margin of victory does not matter. Odds are presented as positive or negative numbers (e.g., -200, +150). A negative number indicates the favored team and the amount one must bet to win $100. A positive number indicates the underdog and the amount one would win on a $100 bet.
Moneyline betting is popular in sports where point spreads are less common or harder to apply, such as baseball, hockey, and soccer. Sportsbooks adjust moneyline odds based on perceived team strength, public betting patterns, and other factors to manage risk and ensure profitability. Investors in sports betting firms track moneyline activity as a key driver of betting volume and revenue, reflecting a fundamental aspect of how sportsbooks operate.
Why it matters
Moneyline bets are a core betting market, influencing sportsbook revenue and reflecting public sentiment on game outcomes.
Reviewed under editorial standardsUpdated September 26, 2026Not investment advice