Eli5: Why are professional athletes typically banned from placing bets that are in favor of their own team/themselves?

Question

I understand why you would not want athletes to throw games on purpose if they place a large bet for the opposing team to win, however let’s say I am a pitcher in baseball, and I place a bet for my own team to win, wouldn’t that only motivate me to play better because I stand to win more money by doing so?

In: 1352

Answer 1

In football, you have 5 days of practice and preparation for the next game. Every team goes in with a game plan. I.e focus heavy on the run game and keep the clock running. Players could bet the over rushing yards and under total points. It’s an unfair advantage.