Definition
Baseball’s spread, almost always set at 1.5 runs: the favorite must win by 2+ (−1.5) or the underdog must lose by 1 or win (+1.5). Prices move to balance the fixed 1.5-run margin.
Related terms
- Spread — A handicap on the favorite (−6.5) and underdog (+6.5). The favorite must win by more than the number to cover.
- Cover (Against the Spread, ATS) — Beating the spread: a favorite winning by more than the number, or a dog losing by less (or winning). ATS = record measured by covering.