When placing a bet on an event, you are wagering that a particular outcome will occur. If you are betting on the winner of a game, that is called a money line bet. If you are predicting the number of points scored in a game, that is called an over/under bet. You can combine multiple outcomes into one bet, which is known as a parlay.

Official betting is an element of sports gambling that has been a part of the sport since its inception. In 1919, professional gambler Joseph Sullivan paid eight members of the Chicago White Sox (Oscar Felsch, Arnold Gandil, Shoeless Joe Jackson, Charles Risberg, Fred McMullin, George Weaver, and Claude Williams) around 10,000 dollars each to fix a World Series matchup against the Cincinnati Reds. The scandal would ultimately lead to the players being banned from baseball for life.

In addition to betting on MLB games, there are many other types of sports bets you can place. Most online sportsbooks offer a wide variety of wagering options, from standard point spreads and totals to moneyline bets and player props. Some sites even offer a number of different betting apps for iOS and Android devices, making it easier than ever to find the perfect bet.

Regardless of the type of bet you place, customer support is an important factor to consider. The best sites will have FAQ articles, live chat, and phone support available to assist you with any questions or issues you may have.