New York City is a hotbed for sports betting, with over $2 billion wagered in October 2023 alone. As October rolls around again, the city is buzzing with sports excitement. The Knicks, Rangers, Islanders, Jets, and Giants are all making headlines in their respective leagues. However, the spotlight is on baseball, with both the Mets and Yankees competing in the league championship series for the first time in over twenty years.
The Mets have seen a remarkable transformation from underdogs to contenders this season, garnering significant betting support along the way. On the other hand, the Yankees remain the top choice for New York bettors, with more money placed on them than any other team in any sport, both locally and nationally. The 162-game baseball season provides ample opportunities for betting, solidifying the Yankees’ position as the most popular team to wager on in New York.
Bookmakers, both past and present, agree that New York is a “Yankee town” when it comes to sports betting. The city’s rich history of bookmaking dates back to the pre-internet era when bookies operated out of rented properties, evading strict gambling penalties. Today, with the advent of online betting, the landscape has shifted drastically, with the majority of bets being placed digitally.
Despite the dominance of the Yankees in the betting world, the Mets have seen a surge in support during the playoffs. Hometown fans have rallied behind the Mets, with a significant portion of the betting action favoring the team in recent games. While the Yankees maintain a strong betting following, especially when they are performing well, the Mets have captured the hearts of local bettors during the postseason.
In New York, sportsbooks have seen a considerable influx of bets on both the Yankees and Mets, with the former consistently attracting more wagering activity. However, during the playoffs, the Mets have garnered increased support from local bettors, reflecting the city’s divided allegiance between the two teams.
As the baseball season heats up with the championship series underway, the betting action in New York continues to intensify. While the Yankees remain a perennial favorite among bettors, the Mets’ recent success has added an exciting dynamic to the city’s sports betting scene. Whether you’re a die-hard Yankees fan or a loyal supporter of the Mets, one thing is certain – New York City is a sports betting hub like no other.