2022 NL Rookie of the Year Opening Odds, Contenders

It’s been a long time since the Pittsburgh Pirates produced an NL Rookie of the Year winner. Jason Bay was the last Pirates player to be named NL ROY back in 2004, but the oddsmakers have made Oneil Cruz the favorite heading into the 2022 season. Cruz hit well in his two games in the big leagues last year, and he has an edge over other contenders in what will be a shortened season as he is expected to start on Opening Day.

2022 NL Rookie of the Year Betting Odds

• Oneil Cruz +300
• Keibert Ruiz +475
• Bryson Stott +800
• Hunter Greene +900
• Sixto Sanchez +900
• Joey Bart +1000
• Edward Cabrera +1500
• Alex Thomas +1500
• Matt Vierling +1800
• Camilo Doval +2000
• Brennen Davis +2200
• Nolan Gorman +2500
• All Other Players +3000 or More

Odds Provided by DraftKings - Subject to Change

Oneil Cruz struck out four times in his nine at-bats after being promoted for Pittsburgh’s last two games of the season. Cruz showcased his ability to make contact and power though with three hits and a home run against the Cincinnati Reds. The 23-year-old shortstop absolutely raked in six games at AAA too. Cruz had 11 hits and five home runs in 29 at-bats, and he drew eight walks. Those eight games have generated tremendous buzz for Cruz.

Keibert Ruiz was unable to crack the everyday lineup with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but he will have every opportunity to shine for the Washington Nationals after being included in the Max Scherzer and Trea Turner. Ruiz had a cup of coffee in the big leagues during the COVID-shortened season, and he played 29 games in the majors last year. He has been one of the top catching prospects in baseball too, but a catcher hasn’t won this award since the now-retired Buster Posey did it in 2010.

Posey’s replacement is worth a gander at odds of 10-1 to win NL ROY. Joey Bart has played 35 games with San Francisco over the last two years. Bart has struggled to make contact and has struck out on nearly 40% of his at-bats, but he posted an .830 OPS over 252 at-bats in the minor leagues.

A longshot to consider at 25-1 is Nolan Gorman. The St. Louis Cardinals’ infielder hit well at AA and AAA last year, and he showcased a great eye with power during the Arizona Fall League. Gorman probably won’t be on the Opening Day roster, but it shouldn’t take too long for the Cardinals to call their top prospect up to the majors.