The 2025 Arnold Palmer Invitational takes place from March 6-9 at Bay Hill Club & Lodge in Orlando, Florida. This is a Signature Event on the PGA Tour, featuring a strong 72-player field. The tournament has a 36-hole cut, with the top 50 and any players within 10 shots of the lead advancing to the final two rounds. The purse is $20 million, with the winner receiving $4 million.
Defending champion Scottie Scheffler is the +320 favorite after winning this event twice in the last three years. Rory McIlroy (+750) and Ludvig Aberg (16-1) are among the top contenders. Other notable players include Xander Schauffele (16-1), Collin Morikawa (22-1), and Patrick Cantlay (30-1). With a loaded field, betting action is expected to be strong. WagerHome is the place to get the best odds and expert analysis.
Scheffler Preview – Can He Win Again at Bay Hill?
Scottie Scheffler is the No. 1 golfer in the world and has a strong track record at Bay Hill. He won this event in 2022 and 2024, dominating last year with a five-shot victory. His putting was a key factor in that win, and his overall consistency has made him the favorite once again.
Scheffler has been in good form leading into this event, with strong performances in early 2025. His ball-striking remains among the best on tour, and Bay Hill’s setup plays to his strengths. If his short game holds up, he will be tough to beat.
The main challenge for Scheffler will be holding off the rest of the top players. He will need to keep his game steady, especially on Bay Hill’s tough greens. A third win in four years would further solidify his dominance in this event.
McIlroy Preview – A Strong Contender
Rory McIlroy enters the Arnold Palmer Invitational as one of the top challengers. The 2018 winner has a good record at Bay Hill, with multiple top finishes. His driving ability gives him an advantage on this long course, and his recent form suggests he could be a factor this week.
McIlroy has played well in big events, and this is one of the tougher stops on tour. He will need to be sharp with his approach shots and putting to keep up with the top names. If he can avoid mistakes on the challenging holes, he has a strong chance to compete for the title.
His odds at +750 indicate that he is one of the biggest threats to Scheffler. With a solid start, he could put himself in position to contend for the win on Sunday.
Schauffele Preview – A Return to Action
Xander Schauffele (+1600) is playing in his first event since the season opener due to injury. He is ranked No. 2 in the world and has the all-around game to perform well at Bay Hill. His iron play and putting will be key factors in determining his success.
Schauffele has played well in Signature Events and majors in recent years. If he can shake off the rust early, he has the ability to compete at a high level. His odds make him an interesting betting option for those looking beyond the favorites.
With the field stacked, Schauffele will need to start strong and avoid mistakes in the early rounds. If he is near the top of the leaderboard heading into the weekend, he will be a serious threat.
Aberg Preview – A Rising Star
Ludvig Aberg (+1600) is one of the rising stars on the PGA Tour. The young Swede has been impressive in his early career, and his game fits Bay Hill well. His ability to hit fairways and greens consistently gives him an edge on a course that demands precision.
Aberg has been in strong form leading into this event, posting multiple top-10 finishes in 2025. His confidence is growing, and he is becoming a more consistent contender in big tournaments. A win at Bay Hill would solidify his place among the tour’s elite.
His odds reflect the growing belief that he can compete with the best. If he plays with the same confidence he has shown recently, he could be in contention on Sunday.
Morikawa Preview – A Solid Value Pick
Collin Morikawa (+2200) is another player to watch at Bay Hill. He is one of the best iron players in the world, and that skill is crucial in this course. If his putter gets hot, he has the ability to challenge the favorites.
Morikawa has had mixed results in recent months, but he remains a dangerous player in big events. His accuracy off the tee and strong approach game should give him plenty of birdie chances. The question will be whether he can convert enough of those chances to stay in contention.
At +2200, he offers solid value for bettors looking for a player outside the top favorites. If he can avoid mistakes and keep his short game sharp, he could be a factor on Sunday.
Cantlay Preview – A Longshot Worth Watching
Patrick Cantlay (+3000) is a 30-1 longshot, but he has the game to perform well at Bay Hill. He has posted multiple top-five finishes in early 2025, and his putting has improved significantly. If he keeps that momentum going, he could surprise some people this week.
Cantlay’s iron play has been sharp, and he has been steady in pressure situations. The key for him will be avoiding big mistakes, as Bay Hill is known for punishing bad shots. If he stays consistent, he could be in the mix heading into Sunday.
At 30-1, he provides value as a player with the skills to compete with the best. If you’re looking for a long shot with real upside, Cantlay is a strong choice.
PPH Betting Prediction
Scheffler is the clear favorite, but this tournament has plenty of depth. McIlroy and Aberg provide strong competition, while Schauffele’s return adds another layer of intrigue. Morikawa and Cantlay offer solid value at their odds.
Expect a winning score between 10-15 under par, depending on conditions. Scheffler is the safest pick, but McIlroy, Schauffele, and Aberg are all strong bets. If you’re looking to bet on this event, WagerHome has the best odds and insights for PPH bookies.
Pick: Scottie Scheffler to win (+320), with value on Rory McIlroy (+750) and Ludvig Aberg (+1600).
