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Chalkboard lesson · Betting Slang

What is the run line in baseball betting?

The short answer

Baseball's version of the point spread, usually -1.5 / +1.5.

Watch the lesson

Chalkboard lesson explaining Run Line with a worked Run Line example.Play the Run Line video

Betting slang explained

Knowing the language is step one — knowing the true price is the edge. The Cold Line’s signal desk tracks the no-vig fair number and the closing-line value behind terms like this, before the market moves.

In plain English

Baseball's spread, almost always a run and a half. The favorite has to win by two.

What to remember about Run Line

The definition

Baseball's version of the point spread, usually -1.5 / +1.5.

In plain English

Baseball's spread, almost always a run and a half. The favorite has to win by two.

Example in context

"Take the run line if you think they win big."

Check yourself

Term quiz

Check yourself: Run line

0/3 answered

1.The run line is…

2.You back the favorite at −1.5 on the run line. What is required?

3.Why does taking −1.5 pay more than the moneyline on the same team?

Keep learning

Explore the next question before you place a bet.

Put the concept to work

Explore Run Line with a concrete research workflow. Build your own number, compare sportsbook prices with a sharp reference, or use Audits to review timestamped book moves beside play-by-play.

Browse the full A–Z betting glossary or read the complete betting guide. The Cold Line also publishes a free year-round sports calendar and an odds board (Free account: delayed odds).