Paulie's Picks: 2026 Masters Best Bets

Now that we have already profiled what it takes to succeed at Augusta National and provided a few longshot picks to win, it’s time to look at some of the best bets for the week:

Corey Conners and Adam Scott to Make the Cut, -115

I said it in longshots and I’ll say it here again: Corey Conners and Scott are both great options this week. Scott has played in every Masters since 2002, and last year was his first missed cut at Augusta National since 2009. He is in much better form this year with his iron play, and he’s even added some distance to his game, too. Conners has made the cut in six of his seven appearances at Augusta National with four top 10 finishes. He is striking his irons great right now as he has gained over 15 strokes on approach in his last three events. This elite ball-striking should get him another weekend tee time.

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Justin Rose: First Round Top 10, +370

Rose has shot under par and finished 13th or better in 11 of his 20 Masters opening rounds. He has nine top-six finishes and has been the leader five times! He makes for a great day one pick to lead, top 10, or top 20 in the first round. Just look at some of his first round scores over the years and where he sat on the leaderboard after the opening day of play:

• 2025: 65 (First)
• 2023: 69 (13th)
• 2021: 65 (First)
• 2020: 67 (Sixth)
• 2017: 71 (Fourth)
• 2016: 69 (Fourth)
• 2015: 67 (Second)
• 2013: 70 (13th)
• 2008: 68 (First)
• 2007: 69 (First)
• 2004: 67 (First)

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Nicolai Hojgaard: Top 30, +115

Hojgaard will continue to fly under the radar to most golf fans, but he has elite talent. He is one of the longest players on Tour and has really taken the next step in 2026. He has finished inside the top 30 in six of his seven starts this season, including top-six finishes at the Texas Children’s Houston Open, Cognizant Classic, and WM Phoenix Open. In 2026, he ranks in the top 10 in both strokes gained total and approach, as well as driving distance. Nicolai was in contention in 2024 but fell back to 16th place after rounds of 76 and 74 on the weekend. Getting plus money for him to finish top 30 this week is a lot of value.