2026 Arnold Palmer Invitational prediction: PGA Tour odds, picks, best bets The Florida Swing, a stretch of tournaments known for its unpredictable nature, delivered a dramatic twist during the final rounds of the Cognizant Classic. Shane Lowry, who entered the final day with a three-stroke lead, appeared poised for victory. The Irish golfer had executed consistent play throughout the event, navigating the challenging course with precision. However, a critical error on the 16th hole set off a chain reaction of setbacks. Two double-bogeys and a par later, Lowry’s tournament came to an abrupt end, marking what could be the most significant collapse of the 2026 season. The collapse was a harsh reality for bettors who had backed Lowry at 19/1 odds, but it provided a windfall for those who had taken a chance on Nico Echavarria at 40/1. The incident underscored the volatile nature of golf betting, particularly during this phase of the season. As the focus shifts to the Arnold Palmer Invitational, one of the season’s most prestigious non-major events, the stakes remain high. Bay Hill, the iconic course hosting the Arnold Palmer Invitational, is renowned for its difficulty. In 2025, it ranked eighth among PGA Tour courses, and in 2024, it placed tenth. The layout demands precision, with hazards and tight fairways testing even the most seasoned players. Scottie Scheffler, who has claimed two titles at Bay Hill in his last four appearances (2022 and 2024), is the favorite at +320 odds. Rory McIlroy, with a single-digit line at +950, is the only other golfer carrying short odds, given his strong historical performance at the event. While the top contenders pose formidable challenges, there are long shots worth considering. Viktor Hovland, who missed the cut at Bay Hill last year, is now available at 40/1.#arnold_palmer_invitational #bay_hill #scottie_scheffler #shane_lowry #nico_echavarria
