Best Online Platforms for Baseball Betting


Intro
In the ever-expanding world of online betting, the landscape of baseball wagering has seen remarkable changes over the years. As technology continues to be a game-changer, sports fans are now afforded new avenues to engage with their beloved sport during the baseball season. Betting isn’t merely a pastime; it has evolved into an intricate dance of strategy and analysis. For both newcomers and seasoned veterans alike, understanding where to place those bets is crucial for a satisfying experience.
What platforms should you prioritize? Are they regulated? What types of bets can you make? How do you develop a strategy to improve your chances? Navigating through this sprawling industry can seem daunting, but that’s where this guide comes into play. Let's unpack the notion of online betting, dive into the core strategies, and sprinkle in a few tips that could make the difference between winning a bet or watching it go down the drain.
Strategies for Betting and Poker
Betting, much like poker, requires not just a feel for the game but also a keen understanding of odds and effective strategies. Each game offers opportunities, but without the right approach, those opportunities may slip through your fingers like sand.
Understanding Betting Odds
Betting odds offer insights into what sportsbooks consider the likelihood of an outcome. They serve as the backbone of any betting strategy. The format of the odds may vary, whether fractional, decimal, or American, but comprehending them is essential.
- Fractional Odds: Common in the UK, these odds present potential profit relative to your stake. For instance, 5/1 means if you bet $1, you’ll earn $5 if you win.
- Decimal Odds: Used widely in Europe, represented as a single number (e.g., 6.00). It shows total return including your stake. So for a $1 bet, the return is $6.
- American Odds: Portrayed as either positive or negative numbers. A +200 means you’d profit $200 on a $100 bet; -200 signifies you'd need to stake $200 to win $100.
Understanding these various formats helps bettors compare different lines, ensuring informed decisions.
Key Poker Hands and Their Value
Even if your focus is on baseball, the skills from poker can overlap. Grasping poker hands is part of strategic thinking.
- Royal Flush: The highest hand, unbeatable.
- Straight Flush: Five consecutive cards of the same suit.
- Four of a Kind: Four cards of the same rank.
- Full House: Three of a kind plus a pair.
Such combinations remind us that in any type of betting, knowing your position and what constitutes a winning hand (or a winning bet) can often be the difference between success and failure.
Responsible Gambling Practices
While the thrill of betting can be intoxicating, it’s vital to approach the activity sensibly. Responsible gambling ensures your hobby remains enjoyable rather than morphing into a problematic habit.
Setting a Budget and Sticking to It
Before diving into the fray, determine how much money you can afford to gamble without it impacting your financial responsibilities. A common practice is to allocate a set amount weekly or monthly. Once you've hit that limit, pull back. Betting should feel like an entertainment expense, not a financial risk.
Recognizing Signs of Problem Gambling
Awareness is half the battle. It's essential to monitor your behavior. Here are some signs that things might be veering off track:
- Betting with money meant for bills or necessities
- Chasing losses and increasing stakes to recover lost bets
- Experiencing heightened anxiety when betting or facing losses
Recognizing these patterns early can help you maintain control and enjoy sports betting rather than letting it control you.
Remember, betting should enhance the sports experience, not define it. Engage with caution and make informed choices.
Understanding Online Baseball Betting
In today’s fast-paced digital environment, the landscape of baseball betting has experienced a sea change. Understanding this topic is crucial not only for those who are fans of the game but also for anyone looking to engage profitably with the betting market. Online betting allows enthusiasts to wager from the comfort of their home, dodging long queues or waiting at physical betting venues. This convenience brings several key benefits and considerations for players.
The Evolution of Online Betting
The journey of online baseball betting is quite fascinating. Originally, betting on sports meant making a trip to a brick-and-mortar establishment. The thrill of having a stack of cash and placing bets in person was palpable. Fast forward to the late 90s and early 2000s, with the internet maturing into a significant force; it was the time when online betting platforms began to sprout like weeds in spring.
At first, it was a bit of a gamble—no pun intended. There were concerns about legitimacy, as many platforms lacked proper oversight and regulation. Over time, regulations began to take shape, creating a safer and more reliable environment for bettors. Nowadays, from BetMGM to FanDuel, players can choose from a plethora of regulated sites, making the experience far less daunting than it once was. The evolution not only reflects changes in technology but also shifts in consumer behavior and preferences.
Benefits of Online Betting
When considering online baseball betting, multiple advantages pop up like popcorn in a hot pan. Here’s a look at several key benefits:
- Convenience: The ability to place bets 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection is a game-changer. Whether you're lounging in your living room or on the go, just a few taps on your smartphone and you're in business.
- Wide Range of Options: Online platforms typically offer a more extensive array of betting markets. From moneyline bets to intricate prop bets that let you wager on player performances, the options sometimes feel endless.
- Promotions and Bonuses: Many betting sites entice new users with attractive bonuses, such as deposit matches or risk-free bets. This can make your initial betting experience far more rewarding. Just keep your eyes peeled for the terms and conditions, as they can differ widely.
- Access to Information: Online platforms are often flush with data. Stat trackers and historical performance analysis at one's fingertips can dramatically improve decision-making, allowing you to make more educated bets.
- Community Engagement: With the massive online gambling scene, many platforms boast active forums and discussion boards. This creates a sense of community among bettors, facilitating the sharing of strategies and insights. Places like Reddit offer open forums where bettors can exchange thoughts and experiences, making it easier to learn from peers.
"Understanding the advantages of online betting is crucial for making informed decisions that could enhance your overall gaming experience."
In summary, diving into the realm of online baseball betting isn’t just about placing a few wagers. It's an intricate world full of possibilities and challenges, merging the love for baseball with the strategies of betting. Grasping how this world evolved and the benefits it offers can turn a novice into a seasoned bettor in no time.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Betting Platform
Selecting the right platform for baseball betting isn't just a click of a button. It’s a process that requires keen insight and awareness of the online betting landscape. Factors such as trustworthiness, user-friendliness, and market options can spell the difference between a rewarding experience and a frustrating one. Whether you're just starting out or have logged in a few hours at the betting table, understanding these key considerations can lead you to a trustworthy platform and enhance your overall betting experience.
Regulatory Compliance and Licensing


The first thing that should catch your eye while searching for a betting platform is its regulatory compliance. A licensed platform shows that the operators follow strict rules aimed at protecting players. You wouldn’t want to wager your hard-earned money on a site that doesn’t play by the legislative book, right? Look for sites regulated by authoritative bodies like the UK Gambling Commission or the Malta Gaming Authority. They ensure fair play and monitor the operators, providing an essential layer of security.
"Running a business without a license is like playing baseball without a glove. You risk losing everything if you get hit with a foul ball!"
Checking out the licensing information is simple enough. Usually, it can be found at the bottom of the home page. Don’t skip this step; it’s a red flag if you can’t find any licensing information. Remember, good things in betting don’t come to those who rush—take your time to read up on this crucial matter.
User Experience and Interface
A slick interface may not win you games, but it sure can ease your betting journey. Platforms that prioritize user experience will offer clean navigation, appealing designs, and easily accessible features. When you log onto a betting site, you should feel like you’ve entered a well-organized ballpark, not a cluttered garage sale.
Consider how intuitive the site is. Can you find the betting markets you’re interested in with a few clicks? Can you easily view betting history and transactions? Mobile compatibility is equally important; a dynamic platform should run smoothly on smartphones. This flexibility ensures you won’t miss any action, whether you're watching a game at home or catching it live at the stadium.
Available Betting Markets and Options
Not all platforms offer the same breadth of betting markets, and this is where you can separate the wheat from the chaff. Comprehensive platforms will provide a variety of betting types beyond just moneyline wagers. Look for odds on point spreads, over/under bets, and prop bets that can add layers to your betting strategy.
Additionally, ensure that they cover a wide range of leagues. Major League Baseball is a given, but what about international leagues, minor leagues, or even college baseball? The more options at your fingertips, the better equipped you are to make informed bets.
- Look for these categories in betting options:
- Moneyline Bets
- Point Spread Bets
- Over/Under Bets
- Prop Bets
- Futures
A diverse set of options can not only keep your betting experience fresh but also enable you to hedge your bets better. This agility can help turn potential losses into wins, or at least minimize the damage.
In summary, these key considerations—regulatory compliance, user experience, and available market options—aren’t just bullet points. They are the foundational elements upon which a successful betting journey is built. Take your time to consider them thoroughly.
Top Online Platforms for Baseball Betting
In the increasingly digital landscape of sports wagering, choosing the right betting platform for baseball can make a world of difference. The choice of an online betting platform is crucial, as it can directly affect the ease with which you can place your bets, the types of bets available to you, and ultimately, your overall experience as a bettor. With a myriad of options available today, identifying the top online platforms tailored for baseball betting becomes essential.
Established Betting Sites
When it comes to laying down your bets, established sites hold a considerable advantage. These platforms, like Bet365, FanDuel, and DraftKings, have built a reputation over many years and often enjoy a sizable user base. They offer a certain level of confidence and stability that newer platforms might not yet possess.
Some key benefits associated with these established sites include:
- Trustworthiness and Reputation: Their long-standing presence typically means they have invested heavily in security and customer service.
- Diverse Offerings: You’ll find that these sites offer a wide range of betting options, covering everything from the regular season to playoffs and specialized bets.
- Promotions and Bonuses: Established platforms often provide various promotions like welcome bonuses or free bets, enhancing your initial bankroll.
In a crowded market, if you're looking to hit the ground running, don’t underestimate the merits of well-known platforms which have passed the test of time. They often come with features that are tried, tested and true.
Emerging Betting Platforms
On the other hand, emerging betting platforms are carving out their own niche in the marketplace. These sites may not yet have the vast resources or recognition of giants in the industry, but they frequently provide innovative features that enhance user experience. Examples include platforms like Barstool Sportsbook and MonkeyKnifeFight.
Here’s why you might consider these newer entrants:
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Many new platforms prioritize user experience with intuitive interfaces, mobile compatibility, and attractive graphics, making betting smooth and engaging.
- Competitive Odds: These sites often offer better odds compared to their older counterparts to attract new customers.
- Specialized Bets: They might focus on specific sports or bet types, giving bettors niche options that bigger platforms might overlook.
If you're adventurous and seeking a fresh perspective, exploring these emerging platforms could yield exciting opportunities. They often push the envelope on user engagement and interface design, appealing to the tech-savvy bettor.
"In a world full of choices, a well-informed decision is your best bet."
Ultimately, whether you lean toward established sites or are curious about emerging platforms, it’s important to align your choice with your own betting style and preferences. Both categories bring unique advantages to the table, and discerning bettors should weigh these factors according to their specific needs.
Navigating Betting Odds and Lines
Understanding how to navigate betting odds and lines is crucial for anyone diving into online baseball betting. Odds represent the probability of a certain outcome, and they guide bettors in assessing risk and making informed decisions. The foundation of successful betting rests on these odds, because they not only influence potential winnings but also reflect the bookmaker's interpretation of team performances and trends.
When someone bets without a solid grasp of odds, it’s like stepping into a minefield blindfolded. You might stumble upon a winning bet now and then, but more often than not, you’ll find yourself in treacherous territory. By learning to navigate these betting lines, you'll be equipped to enhance your betting strategy effectively while minimizing losses.
Understanding Different Types of Odds
When it comes to betting, one size hardly fits all. Different types of odds – namely American, Decimal, and Fractional – cater to various preferences. Understanding these formats is essential as each presents the same information in distinct ways.
- American Odds: Also known as moneyline odds, these odds can be positive or negative. A positive number (e.g., +150) suggests the profit earned on a $100 bet, whereas a negative number (e.g., -200) indicates how much you need to wager to win $100. For example, if a player is listed at +150, a successful $100 bet nets you $150.
- Decimal Odds: These provide a straightforward calculation of potential returns. Simply multiply the stake by the decimal number to find out how much you'll earn, including your original bet. For instance, if you're betting at odds of 2.50 for a $100 bet, you could get $250 back – $150 profit plus your initial stake.
- Fractional Odds: Common in the UK, these odds reflect the profit you’ll earn relative to your stake. For example, odds of 5/1 mean you win $5 for every $1 you wager. If you bet $100, your profit would be $500 + the initial stake.
Grasping how these odds work can give you a leg up in assessing the value of a bet. Each format may differ by region, so get familiar with what the platform of your choice uses.
How to Read Betting Lines


Reading betting lines effectively is akin to deciphering a complex language. Often, the odds you see are accompanied by other essential elements, such as the team's point spread or the total runs in a game (over/under).
- Point Spread: In baseball betting, point spreads indicate how many runs a team must win or lose by. For instance, if the New York Yankees are favored by 1.5 runs against the Boston Red Sox, they need to win by at least 2 runs for the bet on them to succeed. It’s always pivotal to consider factors like pitcher match-ups, weather conditions, and recent team performance when analyzing spreads.
- Over/Under: This line offers a prediction on the game's total runs scored by both teams. If the line is set at 8.5, you can bet on whether the teams will score more or less than this total. Analyzing historical performances and the starting pitchers can be instrumental in determining your wager here.
- Moneyline Betting: Finally, in moneyline bets, you're simply betting on who will win without any spread involved. For example, if the Yankees have odds of -150 and the Red Sox are +130, understanding the implications of these odds means comprehending that the Yankees are favored to win.
The key to successful betting isn't just about choosing the right team, but knowing the nuances of the odds and lines that dictate your wager.
Overall, learning how to read and navigate these betting lines can sharpen your decision-making process. This understanding acts not only as a guiding light in your betting journey but also boosts your chances of winning. With this knowledge in your arsenal, making informed, strategic bets becomes more achievable.
Types of Baseball Bets
Understanding the different types of baseball bets is crucial for bettors aiming to enhance their wagering experience. Each bet type offers unique features and strategies, catering to various preferences and styles of play. By knowing the ins and outs of each type, bettors can better position themselves to make informed choices, thereby increasing their potential returns.
Moneyline Bets
Moneyline bets are among the simplest and most popular kinds of wagers. When placing a moneyline bet, you are simply choosing which team will win the game outright, irrespective of the score. The odds associated with each team reflect their perceived likelihood of winning.
For example, if the New York Yankees are playing against the Boston Red Sox, you might see lines like:
- Yankees +120
- Red Sox -140
This indicates that if you bet on the Yankees and they win, you'd earn 120 on a $100 wager. Conversely, with a bet on the Red Sox, you'd need to wager $140 to win $100.
"Moneyline bets provide a straightforward way to get your feet wet in baseball betting, making them ideal for newcomers."
Point Spread Bets
Point spread bets introduce a more nuanced method of betting. Rather than simply betting on which team will win, the point spread assigns a handicap to the favored team. This condition levels the playing field and makes the betting more dynamic.
For instance, if the oddsmakers set a line at -1.5 for the Yankees, it means they must win by at least 2 runs for your bet to pay off. If you back the Red Sox with a +1.5 line, they can either win or lose by a single run for your bet to win.
This type of betting adds layers of strategy and can provide substantial returns when teams are closely matched.
Over/Under Bets
Also known as totals, over/under bets focus on the combined score of both teams at the end of the game. Oddsmakers set a predetermined score, and you decide whether the final score will be above or below that number. For instance, if the over/under is set at 8.5 runs, you can bet whether the game will have more or fewer runs in total.
These bets appeal to those who prefer to analyze offensive and defensive strengths rather than just picking a winner. Moreover, as games progress, live betting options allow you to react in real-time, offering even more chances to place well-informed wagers.
Prop Bets
Proposition bets, often called prop bets, allow bettors to wager on specific occurrences within a game, rather than merely the outcome. These can range from player-specific statistics, like whether a particular player will hit a home run, to team milestones, such as total hits for the game.
These types of bets are engaging for fans because they add an extra layer to the viewing experience. For example, you might bet on whether a pitcher will strike out more than 7 batters or whether a team will score in the first inning. Prop bets can be particularly lucrative, as they often have unpredictable outcomes, leading to favorable odds for the savvy bettor.
Strategies for Successful Betting
When it comes to baseball betting, having a solid game plan is paramount. Understanding the ins and outs of betting strategies can make all the difference between being just another bettor and standing out as someone who consistently wins. With the right strategies, you can not only enhance your enjoyment of the game but drastically improve your chances of walking away with a profit.
This section will cover two essential components: research and analysis techniques, and bankroll management principles. Each part serves a purpose – to empower you with knowledge and instill the discipline needed for sustained success in the betting arena.
Research and Analysis Techniques
Before you place any bets, you need to roll up your sleeves and dig into some research. Think of it as reading the fine print before signing a lease. Understanding player statistics, team performance, and even weather conditions can give you that extra edge. Here are some crucial areas to focus on:
- Player Stats: Always look at recent performance. A star player with a bout of poor form can be more damaging than you think.
- Team Dynamics: Consider how a team has performed against a specific opponent historically. Past games can reveal trends.
- Injuries and Lineups: Always check for injuries or changes in the lineup. A shift in batting order can heavily influence the game's outcome.
- External Factors: Weather, travel schedules, and even fan attendance can impact games. Keep a weather eye on these aspects.
Engaging with dedicated sports analysis platforms or forums such as Reddit can also keep you in the loop. These discussions can provide insights that may not be available on stats alone, leading to more informed decisions.
Bankroll Management Principles
Even the smartest strategies can go awry without solid bankroll management. The old saying "don't bet what you can't afford to lose" rings especially true in baseball betting. Here are key principles to keep your finances on track:
- Set a Budget: Before you even place a bet, determine how much money you’re willing to put at risk. This is your budget for the month or week – stick to it like glue.
- Bet Size: A recommended guideline is to never wager more than 1-5% of your total bankroll on a single bet. This approach will help cushion the blow of inevitable losses.
- Record Keeping: Keep track of all the bets you make, including wins and losses. This practice can help you analyze patterns over time and adjust your strategies accordingly.
"A good bettor is like a good detective—always digging for information and mindful of every detail."
Ultimately, successful betting is about combining sharp analysis with prudent money management. These strategies will not only keep your passion for baseball alive but will also ensure you're playing the long game in a world where the odds can often feel stacked against you.
Understanding both the statistical landscape and the financial boundaries will set you on a path towards becoming a more disciplined and successful bettor.


Responsible Gambling Practices
Engaging in online baseball betting can be thrilling, but it also comes with risks. Responsible gambling practices are crucial for ensuring that the experience remains enjoyable and does not spiral into detrimental territory. These practices serve as guidelines to help bettors maintain control over their wagering habits, keeping the activity within responsible boundaries. Fostering a responsible betting environment encourages enjoyable participation for both newcomers and seasoned players alike.
Setting Limits
Establishing limits is a fundamental aspect of responsible gambling. Whether it’s about time or money, bettors should define what is acceptable for their individual circumstances. Here are some practical steps to consider:
- Time Management: Allocate specific times for betting, ensuring it doesn’t encroach on other important activities or obligations.
- Budget Limits: Determine a fixed amount to wager and stick to it. Consider your overall financial status before placing any bets, which helps prevent the temptation to chase losses.
- Daily and Weekly Caps: Set caps on daily and weekly spending to monitor your gambling behavior. This can be particularly helpful to identify if you are progressively increasing your bets without any logical reasoning.
By putting these measures in place, you are not just safeguarding against significant financial repercussions, but also preserving the enjoyment that baseball betting can provide.
Recognizing Problem Gambling
It’s imperative to have the ability to identify the signs of problem gambling to ensure that the activity remains a form of entertainment rather than a source of distress. The road to recognizing issues early can often help in mitigating more severe consequences down the line. Key indicators to watch for include:
- Increased Frequency: If you find yourself betting more often than you originally planned or feel compelled to do so, it may be a warning sign.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Missing work, school, or social engagements in favor of gambling is a major red flag.
- Emotional Distress: Feeling anxious, irritable, or depressed when you aren't gambling can indicate a deeper problem.
- Chasing Losses: If you start to increase your bets in an attempt to recover earlier losses, this is a sign of gambling issues.
Recognizing these behaviors can help you or someone you know seek help before the situation escalates. Many online betting platforms provide links to support organizations and resources for individuals experiencing gambling difficulties, which can be a lifeline in tough times.
It is always better to err on the side of caution in the whimsical world of betting rather than dive in headfirst without looking at the depth.
By ensuring adherence to responsible gambling practices, individuals can cultivate a more enjoyable and ultimately rewarding betting environment. In this way, online baseball betting serves not only as a source of entertainment but also as an avenue for sharing the love of the game, without the weights of overwhelming stress or financial strain.
Technological Innovations in Online Betting
In recent years, the landscape of baseball wagering has shifted dramatically, largely fueled by technological innovations. Online betting has evolved beyond traditional interfaces to embrace cutting-edge tools that enhance the betting experience. These advancements are not just about speed and efficiency; they reshape the way bettors interact with the game and each other. The significance of these innovations cannot be overstated; they offer a more dynamic and engaging experience for users, tightly tailoring the betting landscape to their preferences.
The Role of Mobile Betting Apps
Mobile betting apps have emerged as key players in the evolution of online baseball betting. The convenience these apps afford users cannot be ignored; your betting options are now literally at your fingertips. Whether you’re sitting at the ballpark or lounging on the couch, you can place bets with a few taps on your smartphone. This accessibility has led to a surge in bettors who prefer to wager on-the-go.
Not only does this elevate user engagement, but the integration of real-time updates ensures that bettors have access to the latest statistics, odds, and game information.
Here are some key benefits of mobile betting apps:
- Instant Updates: Receive live updates on game stats and betting lines.
- User-Friendly Interfaces: Most apps feature intuitive designs, making it easy for both new and experienced bettors.
- Enhanced Variety: Many apps allow for a wide range of betting markets, from moneyline bets to more complex prop bets.
An important consideration when choosing a mobile betting app is the app’s reliability and security. Look for apps that prioritize user privacy and offer secure payment options.
Live Betting Features
Live betting features represent yet another significant innovation in online baseball betting. This allows bettors to place wagers during the game, adjusting their strategies based on real-time events. It’s an exciting way to engage with the sport and take advantage of changing circumstances. For example, injuries, player performances, or even weather conditions can shift the odds and open opportunities for wise betting choices.
The allure of live betting lies in its immediacy and action. Here are some advantages it offers:
- Dynamic Odds: The odds fluctuate based on ongoing game developments, giving serious bettors a chance to capitalize on favorable situations.
- Variety of Bets: You can bet on a wide range of actions, such as the next team to score or the outcome of a specific inning.
- Increased Engagment: Engaging with the game in real-time adds an extra layer of excitement and can enhance the overall viewing experience.
"Live betting is not just about reacting; it’s about making predictions that matter as events unfold."
In summary, the intersection of technology and online baseball betting is paving the way for a richer, more interactive wagering experience. Mobile apps bring unparalleled convenience, while live betting features allow for real-time strategy adjustments. As advancements continue to unfold, bettors need to stay informed and adapt their strategies accordingly.
The Future of Online Baseball Betting
The landscape of online baseball betting is rapidly evolving, shaped by advances in technology, changing consumer preferences, and emerging regulations. Understanding the future of this sector is pivotal for both newcomers and seasoned bettors looking to stay ahead of the curve. As a result, it’s essential to grasp several key elements that could redefine the betting experience, crafting a new narrative for enthusiasts.
Emerging Trends
The trends shaping the future of online baseball betting are as varied as they are significant. One major trend is the increasing integration of data analytics and artificial intelligence. Betting platforms are harnessing algorithms to analyze vast amounts of data, allowing for more accurate predictions and personalized betting recommendations.
Moreover, we are witnessing a surge in real-time betting options. Gamblers can place bets during game play, creating an exhilarating and dynamic experience. This live-betting feature caters to the instincts of baseball fans, who often want to hedge their bets based on the unfolding action on the field.
Another trend gaining traction is the social aspect of betting. Platforms are now incorporating social features that allow users to share tips, strategies, and outcomes with friends or community members. This interactive experience can foster a sense of belonging among bettors, making the activity more engaging.
Overall, the future trends in online betting encapsulate a blend of technology and community, enhancing user experience and creating opportunities for smarter betting strategies.
Regulatory Developments
As online baseball betting continues its climb in popularity, regulatory changes are inevitable. Governments around the world are adapting to this booming market, looking to create frameworks that ensure fairness and transparency while also allowing for revenue generation through taxes.
One significant development is the push for harmonization of regulations across jurisdictions. Bettors desire clarity about where they can legally place their wagers, which has led some regions to consider standardized rules. This pursuit of consistency will likely ease the anxiety many potential gamblers have concerning the legitimacy of online platforms.
Additionally, there is a growing emphasis on responsible gambling. Regulatory bodies are placing stricter requirements on platforms to incorporate features such as self-exclusion options and tools to monitor betting habits. These steps not only aim to protect vulnerable players but also serve to bolster the overall integrity of online betting.
As the regulatory environment evolves, stakeholders must stay informed and adapt to new requirements that may affect how they engage with online betting platforms.