What Does Plus and Minus Mean in Betting?
Plus and minus are common terms used in sports betting that refer to the American odds format. This format is used primarily in the United States and Canada, and it is based on the concept of betting $100. The plus and minus signs indicate whether a team or player is favored or unfavored to win a particular game or match.
In American odds, the plus sign is used to represent the underdog, while the minus sign is used for the favorite. For example, if the New York Yankees are playing the Boston Red Sox, and the Yankees have a plus sign next to their odds, it means they are the underdogs, and a bet on them would pay out more money if they win. On the other hand, if the Red Sox have a minus sign next to their odds, it means they are the favorites, and a bet on them would pay out less money if they win.
Plus and minus are also commonly used in over/under bets and spreads. In a total bet, the sportsbook will set a total number of points, runs, or goals that both teams are expected to score. Bettors can then bet on whether the total score will be over or under that number. If the total score is exactly the same as the number set by the sportsbook, the bet is considered a push, and the bettor receives their money back.
In a spread bet, the sportsbook will set a point spread, which is the number of points that the favorite must win by in order for a bet on them to pay out. Conversely, the underdog can lose by up to that same number of points and still pay out a winning bet. The favorite has a minus sign in front of the spread which works as a handicap and they are, in betting terms, starting the game trailing the other team by that number of points.