2026 National League Pennant Betting Odds
The 2026 MLB season is finally here, so here’s a closer look at the National League Pennant betting odds.




This year, the defending World Series champions Los Angeles Dodgers are heavy favorites, which isn’t surprising considering the team’s stacked roster.
However, there are teams that can put up a challenge, including the Philadelphia Phillies and the Atlanta Braves.
Who will win the NL Pennant this year? Can anyone stop the Dodgers? keep read to learn more and consider some of your own wagering options.
Note: Odds were correct at the time of writing.

How is the Winner Decided?
The National League Pennant is determined by the team that wins the National League Championship Series (NLCS).
The NLCS is the third round of MLB playoffs, including the two teams left in the NL. The winner of the NLCS will face the AL Pennant winner in the World Series.
Last year, the Dodgers won the NL Pennant for the second-straight year. The Dodgers went on to defeat the Toronto Blue Jays to win the World Series.
MLB NL Pennant Betting Odds
As the 2026 MLB season gets underway, futures betting on the NL champion remains one of the most popular markets, with bettors trying to identify which team can navigate a competitive field and emerge as the league’s World Series representative.
According to DraftKings odds, the National League features a clear favorite at the top, but several contenders are close behind, creating a wide-open race heading into the season.
Top 5 Favorites to Win the NL Pennant
Los Angeles Dodgers (+250)
The Los Angeles Dodgers sit firmly atop the NL odds board and are widely viewed as the team to beat. With a roster loaded with stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers combine elite offense with deep pitching. Their consistency over a 162-game season and postseason experience make them the clear frontrunner.
Atlanta Braves (+400)
The Atlanta Braves continue to be one of the most complete teams in baseball. Led by Ronald Acuña Jr. and a powerful lineup, Atlanta boasts both offensive firepower and pitching depth. Their ability to dominate throughout the regular season translates well into postseason success.
Philadelphia Phillies (+550)
The Philadelphia Phillies have become a dangerous October team, thanks to their experienced core and strong lineup. Bryce Harper leads a group that has shown the ability to get hot in the postseason, making them a serious contender in the NL race.
New York Mets (+700)
The New York Mets remain one of the most intriguing teams in the league. With a high-payroll roster and a mix of veteran talent and emerging players, the Mets have the upside to challenge the Dodgers and Braves if everything clicks.
Chicago Cubs (+900)
The Chicago Cubs round out the top five, offering a blend of young talent and veteran leadership. With improving pitching and a competitive lineup, the Cubs are seen as a potential breakout team in the National League.
Other Top NL Pennant Contenders (DraftKings Odds)
| Team | Odds to Win NL Pennant |
|---|---|
| San Diego Padres | +1000 |
| Arizona Diamondbacks | +1200 |
| San Francisco Giants | +1600 |
| St. Louis Cardinals | +1800 |
| Milwaukee Brewers | +2000 |
These teams represent the next tier of contenders, each capable of making a postseason run with the right combination of health and momentum. The Padres and Diamondbacks offer upside thanks to dynamic rosters, while teams like the Cardinals and Brewers rely on strong pitching and fundamentals.
Betting Outlook
The NL pennant race in 2026 appears top-heavy, with the Dodgers clearly leading the pack. However, the gap between the top teams and the next tier is not insurmountable, especially in a playoff format where short series can produce unpredictable results.
For bettors, identifying value beyond the Dodgers is key. Teams like the Phillies or Padres may offer more attractive odds while still possessing the talent to reach the World Series.
As the season progresses, injuries, trades, and performance trends will shift the odds, giving bettors opportunities to find value before the postseason begins.
MLB NL Pennant Previous Winners
The Dodgers have won the NL Pennant five times since 2017, so it will be interesting if another team can finally dethrone them. Here’s a look at Al pennant winners since 2025.
| Year | Team |
| 2025 | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2024 | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2023 | Arizona Diamondbacks |
| 2022 | Philadelphia Phillies |
| 2021 | Atlanta Braves |
| 2020 | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2019 | Washington Nationals |
| 2018 | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2017 | Los Angeles Dodgers |
| 2016 | Chicago Cubs |
| 2015 | New York Mets |
How to Bet On The MLB NL Pennant
To bet on the MLB NL Pennant, complete these steps:
- Go to your preferred sportsbook and log into your account.
- Select the MLB Odds tab option in the betting menu.
- Go to the ‘Futures’ drop-down menu.
- Click on MLB AL Pennant.
- Choose your bet and place it in the bet-slip window.