BetMGM Launches Bonus Bet Promotion for MLB Resumption as Phillies Host Mets
New user offers from BetMGM coincide with SportsLine expert analysis ahead of Philadelphia’s post-All-Star opener against New York.
BetMGM has initiated a promotional campaign for new users ahead of the Major League Baseball resumption on Thursday, targeting the single-game slate featuring the Philadelphia Phillies and the New York Mets. The operator is utilising the bonus code CBSSPORTS to distribute incentives, offering up to $1,500 in bonus bets if a qualifying first wager loses, or $150 if it wins. The structure of the offer varies according to the user’s geographic location.
The matchup marks the commencement of the second half of the 2026 season, with first pitch scheduled for 7:10 p.m. ET at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia. The venue recently hosted the 2026 All-Star Game, a context that has informed the strategic assessments of betting analysts. The Phillies enter the contest as -136 money line favourites, a market position that contrasts with some expert projections.
SportsLine experts have released specific predictions for the game, challenging the established market lines. Jeff Hochman, a SportsLine expert, is backing the New York Mets to win at +110 odds. Hochman cites a statistical system focusing on All-Star Game host teams playing their first home game after the midsummer break. Historical data indicates that since 2002, these host teams have recorded an 8-15 record in such fixtures, with a 2-6 mark since 2017.
Further analysis from SportsLine expert Matt Severance suggests potential roster adjustments by the Phillies. Severance notes that manager Don Mattingly may rest key players Kyle Schwarber and Bryce Harper following their participation in All-Star activities on Monday and Tuesday. With Friday off for Philadelphia, Severance argues that the rest disparity could impact the outcome, particularly given that both bullpens are fully rested behind their respective starters.
On the pitching front, SportsLine prop betting expert Doug is recommending an 'under' on Phillies pitcher Aaron Nola. Nola, who holds a 3-6 record and a 5.75 earned run average, has struggled with pitch efficiency against left-handed hitters, posting a 10.8% walk rate and averaging 4.20 pitches per plate appearance in those matchups. Doug points out that Nola has been pulled at 86 pitches or less in seven of his last 11 starts, and the Mets are expected to field six or seven left-handed batters.
Christian Scott, starting for New York, presents a statistical contrast with a 2-1 record and a 3.17 earned run average. The pitching duel between Scott and Nola forms the core of the expert debate, with the SportsLine Projection Model having simulated every game 10,000 times to inform broader betting strategies across the league.
