Dodgers Retain World Series Favourite Status Following Skubal Acquisition
The defending champions have surged to +170 after acquiring Tarik Skubal, while the Brewers, who hold the best record in baseball, sit at +950 despite a recent series loss to Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Dodgers have consolidated their position as favourites for the 2026 World Series following the acquisition of pitcher Tarik Skubal. The move, executed less than 48 hours before the Major League Baseball trade deadline on 17 August 2026, has prompted DraftKings Sportsbook to adjust its odds, placing the defending champions at +170.
Despite the roster reinforcement, the Milwaukee Brewers remain the primary challengers. Holding the best record in baseball, Milwaukee is listed at +950. The Brewers’ standing is bolstered by a pitching staff that leads Major League Baseball in wins with 76 and tops the National League in earned run average at 3.51. Their pitching unit also leads the league in saves with 40 and ranks second in strikeouts with 1,204.
The competitive dynamic between the two clubs was recently tested in a four-game series in Southern California, where the Brewers emerged victorious. Milwaukee outscored the Dodgers 16-10 during the series, securing a win against Skubal on Sunday. This performance contrasts with Los Angeles’ recent form, where the team has posted a 5-11 record over their last 16 games, including series losses to the Red Sox, Cubs, Diamondbacks, and Brewers.
Nevertheless, the Dodgers maintain a seven-game lead in the National League West. As the defending champions, Los Angeles became the first team to win back-to-back World Series titles since the New York Yankees achieved a three-peat from 1998 to 2000. This marks their third championship in the past six years, a feat that has kept their odds favourable despite a mid-season slump.
Other contenders in the 2026 World Series odds board include the New York Yankees at +750, while the Atlanta Braves and Tampa Bay Rays are priced at +1000. The Chicago Cubs follow at +1200. The MLB postseason is scheduled to commence on 29 September 2026 with the Wild Card Series, leading to a World Series that is set to begin on 23 October and potentially conclude on 31 October.
