MLB Futures: 2009 NL Rookie Of The Year Odds

by Bet Online
The baseball season is well underway, and even though the weather hasn't warmed up fully quite yet, some teams have come out of the gate flying hot.

Last week we took MLB betting handicappers on a tour of the American League rookies who we projected will make the biggest impact on their sport and now we'll put the shoe on the other foot and examine the top NL rookies:

Cameron Maybin, OF - Florida Marlins

Cameron Maybin isn't even 22 years old yet, but the world is expected from him. Maybe was the key centerpiece in the Miguel Cabrera trade and if he pans out, he could be a Rookie of the Year candidate this season. MLB betting fans should be aware that Maybin has a very unique blend of power and speed, that should place him among the best fielders in the game. He's still pretty young but if he gets full-time hours with the Marlins, don't be surprised if he finishes with more than 20 home runs and steals.

Colby Rasmus, OF - St. Louis Cardinals

Hardcore baseball betting fans are familiar with Rasmus, who is a potential five-tool All-Star. The Cardinals have already shifted around Skip Schumaker in the field to make room for Rasmus, who could spark the Cards to have one of the better lineups in baseball. Rasmus spent a lot of time with the team in the 2008 season and he has looked fairly comfortable early on this season. With a lot of protection in the order and with little pressure, Rasmus could be the NL Rookie of the Year.

Andrew McCutcheon, OF - Pittsburgh Pirates

The Pittsburgh Pirates will be banking on Andrew McCutcheon this season as the franchise is really short on franchise talent. McCutcheon has the five-star potential to be their next centerpiece, but he has yet to crack their outfield. While he's a long shot to be the Rookie of the Year, MLB betting handicappers should expect a strong second-half showing from him. The Pirates should call him up by mid-season.

Tommy Hanson, P - Atlanta Braves

While the Atlanta Braves are trying to bring along Tommy Hanson slowly, they might not have a choice if he dominates the minors again like he did last year. MLB betting fans know that the Braves lack a little bit of spice to keep up with the New York Mets but Hanson could be the answer. Hanson led the Arizona Fall League with five wins, while posting an ERA of 0.63 with 49 strikeouts in 28.2 innings pitched.

Chris Perez, P - St. Louis Cardinals

The St. Louis Cardinals primary plan of using Jason Motte as their closer failed miserably in the first week of the season, which means Chris Perez should get a chance to shine. Perez started the season in the minors but considering his fastball pushes 100 mph and he has a dominant sinker, he's too much of an asset not to try out in the closer's role. After all, it's not like the Cardinals have many other options. If Perez steps in and dominates, he could have a dark horse for National League Rookie of the Year.

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