The excitement is building for the **157th running of the Belmont Stakes**, set to take place this Saturday! As we gear up for this monumental race, it’s shaping up to be an exhilarating **three-horse showdown** between the winners of this year’s Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes. Here’s your ultimate guide to betting smarter and potentially pocketing some cash. Buckle up!
What’s Happening at the Belmont Stakes?
This year’s thrilling contest will feature **Sovereignty**, fresh off a victory in the Kentucky Derby, squaring off against **Journalism**, the champion from the Preakness. Not to be overlooked is **Baeza**, who clinched a respectable third place in the Kentucky Derby and is looking to make a splash in this race. What’s more, only **eight horses** are entered this time, and they’ll be racing at a distance of **1 1/4 miles** at the historic **Saratoga Race Course**. This shorter length adds a twist to the strategy!
The Lay of the Land
For the second consecutive year, the Belmont Stakes is taking place at Saratoga due to renovation work at the traditional Belmont Park. With the **small field size** and **heavy favorite** Journalism in play, bettors will need to be strategic to find that elusive value.
**Rodriguez**, a newcomer in the Triple Crown series, also deserves our attention. Trained by the legendary Bob Baffert and ridden by Mike Smith, this horse was unfortunately scratched from the Kentucky Derby due to a foot issue. With more preparation time now behind him, could he pull off an upset?
Betting Tips for the Belmont Stakes
Written by Katherine Terrell
As you consider your bets, remember that high odds on favorites can lead to lower payouts. **Journalism** might seem like a sure thing, but with the grueling schedule of running three races in just five weeks, it raises questions. Here’s how to effectively devise your bets:
Betting on **Journalism**: If you believe in the Preakness winner, a substantial wager on him could pay off.
Value Choices: Alternatively, consider placing Baeza or Sovereignty above Journalism in your exacta bets. Both have exhibited strong performances and could deliver exciting results.
Long Shot Opportunity: Look to Rodriguez. Although he placed third behind Journalism in the San Felipe Stakes, the allure of Baffert and Smith’s combined history at the Belmont could present a great upside.
The likely winner: Journalism, but keep in mind the significance of rest and potential value. If you believe in his prowess, a considerable wager seems fitting.
For better odds: Stack Baeza or Sovereignty ahead of Journalism in your exacta bets and consider filling out your trifecta with Rodriguez and Hill Road.
For a potential upset: Keep a close eye on Rodriguez. Despite a past finish behind Journalism, this horse has the capability to create some buzz, especially under Baffert and Smith’s guidance.
Belmont Insights and Betting Strategies
By Anita Marks
The **third leg** of horse racing’s illustrious **Triple Crown** is upon us! Although no horse can achieve the coveted triple win this year, there are compelling storylines to watch. Here’s what to keep in mind as you prepare for the race:
Once again, the **Belmont Stakes** will run at **1 1/4 miles**, a deviation from the traditional **1 1/2 miles**. This shorter distance at Saratoga adds a conceivably tricky element to your betting strategy.
The powerhouses are meeting again! **Sovereignty**, fresh off his Kentucky Derby victory, had a deliberate plan to skip the Preakness for sustained health. Meanwhile, **Journalism** takes on the pressure of running a third race in just five weeks—will stamina be an issue?
Can **Baeza** upset the odds? His impressive lineage could see history repeating itself; his dam, Puca, produced the last two winning offspring of the Triple Crown.
The players to watch for speed include **Rodriguez**, who missed the Derby due to injury, and **Crudo**, a horse known for an aggressive pace. Can they lead the charge from the outset?
Need a sentimental favorite? **Heart of Honor** is trained by the father-daughter duo of Jamie and Saffie Osborne. Saffie could make history as only the second female jockey to win the Belmont!
Wager Smart: Your Path to Victory
Exacta box: Sovereignty, Baeza, Journalism
Baeza to win, place, or show
Hill Road for a place or show
