2012 Masters Betting Odds: Who Will Be The Top American Finisher

The 2012 Masters at Augusta National brings together all of the world’s best golfers in one unique, historically amazing spot. It is there that everyone battles it out for the distinction of golf’s best player, and where superstars of each and every background have a fair shot at achieving glory.

That being said, there is still a certain amount of national pride amongst both the players in attendance and the fans watching at home. And that is why folks can’t help but wonder who the “Top American Player at the 2012 Masters” will ultimately be.

With Rory McIlroy, arguably the best golfer in the world (albeit, not at last year’s Masters) out of the running, the field as it applies to the noteworthy distinction of “Top American Player” becomes a lot more open than you would think it would be.

Tiger Woods, fresh off his first win in two and a half years at the recent Arnold Palmer Invitational, is being listed at 3/2 to finish as the top American player. Seeing as he’s the favorite to win the whole thing, that’s not especially shocking. Similarly, Phil Mickelson, who already has three green jackets at home being listed 4/1 to finish as the top American is equally unsurprising.

Where it gets weird is with guys like Steve Stricker, who finished tied for 11th in last year’s proceedings, being listed at 20/1. Now that’s not to say that Stricker can’t heat up this time around and shock some people – but listing him as one of the seven favorites to finish with the honor of “Top American Player” seems like a bit of a stretch. Ditto for perpetual underachievers Matt Kuchar (22/1), Nick Watney (22/1), Webb Simpson (25/1), Bill Haas 33/1 and Bo Van Pelt 33/1.

While all eyes will surely be glued on this year’s Masters to see who the overall winner is, a lot of people will also be watching to see who the “Top American Player” will be. Perhaps more people than would care to admit it.