The Houston Astros began the ALDS against the Chicago White Sox on Thursday, and one man has arguably as much riding on the series as the players and coaches. In June, Houston-based business owner Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale used the William Hill mobile app to bet $2 million (+1000) on the Astros to win the World Series, which would payout $22 million — the largest amount in U.S. sports betting history — if successful.
McIngvale, who threw out the first pitch to rapper Bun B before Game 1 of the ALDS at Minute Maid Park, made the bets to hedge for his “Astros Win” promotion. The promotion allows Gallery Furniture mattress buyers who spent $3,000 or more to get their money back if the Astros win it all.
