Sports books pay as if Phillies won

LAS VEGAS, Nevada -- Despite what appeared to happen Monday night in Philadelphia, the Tampa Bay Rays lost Game 5 of the World Series. At least in the view of Nevada sports books, the Phillies won 2-1.

The game was suspended because of rain in the middle of the sixth inning with the score tied 2-2. The Rays had tied it in the top of the sixth when Carlos Pena's two-out single scored B.J. Upton.

However, even though the suspended game is scheduled to be completed today, the betting result is final.

According to Nevada gaming rules -- often referred to as "house rules" -- the final score of an official game is determined by reverting to the last completed inning. The Phillies led 2-1 after the fifth.

Las Vegas sports books are paying off Game 5 side bets on Philadelphia, which was about a minus-170 favorite. Wagers on totals and run-line bets are being refunded because rules stipulate that at least 81/2 innings must be played.

"We're just following the regular baseball rules. This is a very common rule," Las Vegas Hilton sports book director Jay Kornegay said. "We can't make exceptions.

"There was no special disclaimer for World Series games, or any playoff games for that matter, that your bet would continue if the game was suspended. It's one of those unfortunate misunderstood rules of baseball betting."

Kornegay expects some bettors to be confused about the rules, but he said there should be no controversy.

"There will be some upset people," he said. "It's unfortunate because it could be one of the worst bad beats you can get if the Rays come back and beat the Phillies. But it's not a bad beat yet."

Kornegay said the Hilton will post a proposition bet today on the conclusion of Game 5. The Phillies, who have an advantage because they still get to bat in the sixth inning, will be money-line favorites and the wagers will be paid "whenever the game is finished," Kornegay said.

Today's weather forecast in Philadelphia calls for more rain, so another delay is possible.

It is anticipated that Tampa Bay will send rookie left-hander David Price to the mound when the game resumes. Philadelphia also will go with a reliever after ace Cole Hamels pitched six innings Monday.