Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports, recently made headlines by placing a $200,000 bet on the Philadelphia Phillies to win the 2024 World Series. If successful, he stands to win $1.4 million. This isn’t Portnoy’s first big sports bet – earlier this year, he wagered $150,000 on the Edmonton Oilers to win the Stanley Cup, but they were ultimately bested in Game 7 by the Florida Panthers. Despite this loss, Portnoy remains optimistic and is now backing the Phillies in their quest for a championship.
The Phillies have been performing well so far this season, leading the National League with 52 wins and 27 losses. While they currently trail behind the Cleveland Guardians in the overall MLB standings, their strong record indicates that they are serious contenders for a playoff run. The recent retirement of Cole Hamels, a key player from the Phillies’ 2008 championship team, has only added to the team’s motivation to bring another title to Philadelphia.
Hamels, who believes in the current Phillies roster, sees parallels between the team now and the one that won in 2008. He praised their chemistry, confidence, and determination, noting that they have the right mix of talent and camaraderie to go all the way. With the regular season in full swing, the Phillies are focused on maintaining their momentum and making a strong push towards the postseason. Their next game against the Detroit Tigers represents another opportunity to showcase their skills and continue their quest for a World Series title.