Internet sports betting trends focus on the World Series this week as sportsbooks take major action on the Fall Classic. It’s not really surprising to see the Yankees getting so much support in the bets, but I have to wonder if it’s actually warranted.

Yes, the Yankees had the majors’ best record this season and have been dominant so far in the playoffs. But, looking closer, they had by far the easiest playoff matchup of any team in the Division series round when they battled the Twins, who were just happy to be there. Then, the Angel bats imploded when opportunities were there for the taking.

The Phillies had to battle through a red-hot Rockies team followed by the Dodgers, who were the NL’s best team last year. They have the deepest pitching staff in the majors and play phenomenal defense. If you think defense doesn’t mean much, know that seven of the eight playoff qualifiers ranked in the MLB’s top 10 in fielding percentage. The Phillies are young, more athletic, and better baserunners. They also won the World Series last year, for cryin’ out loud, and the Yanks are back in the Fall Classic for the first time since 2003.

Why, then, are the Yankees getting all the sportsbook support? Is it because of their established personality as the “Big Bad Yankees”? The celebrity appeal of A-Rod? Maybe  it’s because of what Mariano Rivera brings in close games, which could be the best reason of all.

I don’t know about you, but I see an opportunity when I look at the betting trends. Thank you, Yankee supporters; you’ve shifted the lines to give the Phillies solid value at +185 and I’ll laugh all the way to the bank when they edge the Bronx Bombers in the World Series.