It’s almost time for NFL odds to take center stage in our betting lives, but golf still has a few more interesting events to explore at the sportsbook this summer. One of them is this week’s Bridgestone Invitational, a World Golf Championship tournament that features a star-studded field. Let’s review a few hot picks. Tiger Woods (+150 to win)
Why he will win: It’s more like “how could he not win?” Tiger has won the Bridgestone six times, all in the last 10 years, and he’s fresh off a win at the Buick Open last week. He’s the perfect combination of good history, strong recent play, and general awesomeness.
Why he won’t win: Um…next question?
Phil Mickelson (+1600 to win)
Why he could win: Phil has the length off the tee needed to succeed at Firestone Country Club, the host course. He’s played decently this season too, with top-10s in half his starts, so he’s due.
Why he won’t win: He should be rusty after taking a hiatus to be with his ailing wife and mother. He also hasn’t made the top 10 at Firestone since 2003. He’s not as good of a sports pick as you may think.
Anthony Kim (+3300 to win)
Why he could win: He’s playing well of late, posting top-20s in four of five tournaments. He’s also a long enough hitter and his general shotmaking and ability to make birdies can keep him in the hunt all weekend.
Why he won’t win: He’s had hiccups on Sundays of late, and I can’t see how playing in an elite field like the Bridgestone’s would calm his heebie-jeebies.
Vijay Singh (+4000 to win)
Why he could win: Vijay is the defending champ at the Bridgestone and he offers solid value at +4000, so some sportsbook software will recommend him to you. He can handle the pressure against a strong field and he can still hit the ball a long way.
Why he won’t win: This is more old Vijay than the Vijay of old. He hasn’t looked right since returning from knee surgery and results aren’t there. He has no top-five finishes in 2009.
Online betting pick: Tiger Woods +150
