The United States baseball team will continue its quest for a World Baseball Classic title, facing Canada in the quarterfinal round at 8 p.m. ET on Friday at Daikin Park in Houston on FOX.
Team USA avoided disaster after starting an inferior lineup in the final game of pool play, qualifying for the knockout stage with a 3-1 record. The USA is a huge favorite to defeat Canada and remains the tourney front-runner.
Canada finished 3-1 in pool play, qualifying for the quarterfinals for the first time in team history.
Find my USA vs. Canada WBC prediction for Friday’s quarterfinal matchup:
USA vs. Canada WBC Prediction: Friday, March 13
- Over 9.5 (-115)
Based on the updated baseball odds, I like the over for my USA vs. Canada prediction ahead of Friday’s WBC quarterfinal matchup.
When BetMGM first released its odds, I wasn’t comfortable taking on a huge moneyline price. Anything can happen in a single-elimination format.
Even with that in mind, I expect the USA to take care of business after drawing a favorable quarterfinal. Team USA just can’t get caught looking ahead to a potential semifinal matchup with the Dominican Republic.
Given how pool play ended for the USA, I’d be surprised if anyone allows that to happen. Team USA started an inferior lineup in an 8-6 loss to Italy, as manager Mark DeRosa seemingly believed they had already qualified for the quarterfinals.
In fact, it wasn’t until he used reliever Mason Miller in the late innings (after Clayton Kershaw was warming up) that DeRosa appeared to have a clear understanding of the tiebreaker rules.
Basically, it was nearly a disaster for the WBC title favorites.
After all that, the USA has to be motivated to make a statement. That’s why I’m more interested in the over now that BetMGM has released more markets.
The USA has scored the second-most runs (35) in this event, trailing only the Dominican Republic. The USA has scored at least five runs in all four games thus far, including nine or more in two different matchups.
Logan Webb will start for Team USA in the quarterfinal matchup. I’d be surprised if he has much trouble against a Canada team that ranked ninth in OPS during pool play, but the Canadians can score enough to help get this total across the finishing line.
USA vs. Canada Odds for WBC Quarterfinals
- USA moneyline: -800
- Canada moneyline: +550
- Total: 9.5
Baseball Betting Lines at BetMGM
BetMGM is the premier online sportsbook for baseball betting lines.
From daily run lines and prop bets to futures odds, there are tons of exciting betting opportunities throughout the year.
If you’re new to the online sportsbook, register today with a sportsbook bonus. And check out sportsbook promos each time you log in.
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
