If you’re not already a follower of Korean Baseball, chances are you haven’t stumbled upon the KBO before. But when COVID-19 put a halt on local sports, it shed light on games being played overseas, including the KBO, which caught the eye of many in the US. Now, betting on KBO matches is gaining popularity.
Get all the details on how to bet on the KBO in this straightforward guide.
About the KBO
The KBO, or Korean Baseball Organization, is South Korea’s premier baseball league. It started out in 1982 with just six teams but has since expanded to ten. Interestingly, most teams are named after the companies that own them. Each team plays an extensive 144-game season, facing off against the other nine teams 16 times. The season typically runs from March through September, providing plenty of baseball excitement for fans to enjoy.
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Key Differences Between KBO and MLB
When comparing the Korean Baseball Organization (KBO) to Major League Baseball (MLB), there are several differences:
1. Game Endings and Tie Rules
In the KBO, games can end in a tie after a maximum of 12 innings, a rule that sets it apart from the MLB where ties are rare. However, during the second half of the 2021 season, the KBO temporarily eliminated extra-inning games altogether, implementing this change after a three-week Olympics break.
2. Playoff Format
The playoff system in the KBO differs significantly from the MLB. With only 10 teams in the league, half of them qualify for the playoffs. Rather than using a conventional bracket format, the KBO uses a ladder system.
3. Designated Hitter Rule
In the KBO, the universal designated hitter (DH) rule has long been established, contrasting with the MLB’s adoption of the rule in the 2020 season due to COVID-19. Pitchers in the KBO never take a turn at bat, unlike in the MLB where the DH rule varies by league.
4. Limits on Foreign Players
The KBO imposes restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed on each team’s roster. Teams are limited to three foreign players, with no more than two allowed to be pitchers. This is very different to the MLB, where the number of foreign players is not capped. KBO teams often roster former MLB pitchers alongside one position player.
5. Talent Level Comparison
While both leagues showcase professional baseball, the talent level in the KBO has been likened to “somewhere between Double-A and Triple-A” in comparison to the MLB. Generally, top KBO players exhibit skills closer to MLB calibre than Double-A talent.
Understanding these distinctions can enhance your appreciation and understanding of the unique aspects of the KBO compared to the MLB.
Who Are the KBO Teams?
The following are the 10 teams that make up the KBO:
Hanwha Eagles
Doosan Bears
Kiwoom Heroes
Kia Tigers
KT Wiz
Lotte Giants
LG Twins
NC Dinos
SSG Landers
Samsung Lions
In contrast to the MLB, where teams are typically named after cities, many KBO teams get their names from corporate franchises. For instance, the Kia Tigers are owned by Kia Motors. The Tigers have an impressive record as the most successful team in the KBO, clinching the Korean Series championship 11 times.
Another prominent example is the Samsung Lions, owned by Cheil Worldwide, a subsidiary of Samsung. The Lions have claimed the Korean Series title 8 times.
Likewise, brands like LG and Doosan are well-represented in the league. The LG Twins and Doosan Bears, based in Seoul, share a stadium and enjoy substantial fan bases.
It’s worth noting that the SSG Landers underwent a name change for the 2021 season, transitioning from the SK Wyverns.
Understanding Korean Baseball Betting Trends
In the realm of sports betting, Korean Baseball (KBO) may not command the same attention as Major League Baseball (MLB) or other mainstream sports in the United States. However, uncovering valuable insights to gain an edge in KBO betting is not impossible. Here are some key trends to consider:
Weekly Game Schedule and Rest Days
All KBO teams participate in games from Tuesday through Sunday each week, with Mondays designated as rest days. Understanding this schedule can aid in predicting team performance and player fatigue.
Competitive Balance in the League
With only 10 teams in the KBO, the disparity between top and bottom teams may not be as pronounced as one might expect. While certain teams may struggle, upsets are commonplace. Additionally, factors like weather conditions, particularly rain, can influence game outcomes, leading to more unders or shortened games.
Home Field Advantage
Home-field advantage is a significant factor in KBO games, with home teams winning approximately 54.6% of the time. Researching each team’s performance in their home ballpark and analyzing scoring trends can provide valuable insights into betting strategies.
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Thorough Research
Due to limited readily available information, conducting extensive research is crucial. This includes identifying starting pitchers and assessing their performance against opposing teams. Blindly betting on underdogs without considering pitchers’ statistics may lead to big losses for you.
Consider Run Lines
Given that KBO games can end in ties, considering run lines offers opportunities for underdogs to cover the spread. Unlike the MLB, where extra innings can alter outcomes, the KBO’s tie rule can benefit bettors, especially when evaluating run-line trends.
Monitor Line Movements
Paying attention to line movements can reveal valuable insights into where the “sharp money” is flowing. Tracking these movements can help in identifying favorable betting opportunities and avoiding potential pitfalls.
Things to Avoid When Betting on KBO
Avoid Betting Overs Blindly: While high-scoring games are common in the KBO, betting solely on overs may not always be prudent. Factors like team scoring droughts and adverse weather conditions can impact game outcomes, while ties can negate overs bets.
Don’t Solely Back Former MLB Pitchers: While former MLB pitchers in the KBO are often top performers, Korean pitchers are equally capable and should not be overlooked. Consider both Korean and MLB pitchers’ strengths and matchups when making betting decisions.
Exercise Caution with Favorites: While top KBO teams may seem like safe bets, the status of their heavy favorite can result in unfavorable odds. Upsets are frequent in the league, even among lower-ranked teams. Assessing pitching matchups and identifying value bets is essential to navigate KBO betting successfully.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What options do online platforms offer for betting on Korean baseball?
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Are these online platforms legally authorized for betting on Korean baseball?
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How can I ensure a KBO crypto betting site is reputable?
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What betting options are available on these platforms for Korean baseball?
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Can I place crypto bets on Korean baseball using my mobile device?
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Are there any promotional offers or bonuses provided on these platforms for Korean baseball betting?
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How do I deposit and withdraw funds on these betting platforms for Korean baseball?
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Do these platforms offer live crypto betting options for Korean baseball?
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Is it possible to watch Korean baseball games on these platforms?
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