This article is part of our Horse Racing series.
Preakness Stakes: A Betting Preview for Football Enthusiasts
The anticipation is palpable as the **Preakness Stakes**, the second leg of the illustrious **Triple Crown**, approaches Baltimore, Maryland, for its monumental 150th running. While this year’s race sees *Sovereignty* taking a backseat, focusing on the upcoming Belmont Stakes, we still have an exciting field of contenders.
With **nine horses** set to compete over a slightly shorter distance of **1 3/16 miles** (9.5 furlongs), all eyes will be on Pimlico Race Course this Saturday at **7:01 p.m. EST.** Buckle up as we delve into horse profiles and betting strategies that could mean the difference between a thrilling win and a disappointing loss.
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Preakness Stakes Horses & Odds
| Horse | Record (W-P-S) | Morning-Line Odds | Jockey | Trainer |
| 1. Goal Oriented | 2, 2-0-0 | 6-1 | Flavien Prat | Bob Baffert |
| 2. Journalism | 6, 4-1-1 | 8-5 | Umberto Rispoli | Michael McCarthy |
| 3. American Promise | 10, 2-1-1 | 15-1 | Nik Juarez | D. Wayne Lukas |
| 4. Heart of Honor | 4, 1-3-0 | 12-1 | Saffie Osborne | Jamie Osborne |
| 5. Pay Billy | 9, 5-1-1 | 20-1 | Raul Mena | Michael Gorham |
| 6. River Thames | 4, 2-1-1 | 9-2 | Irad Ortiz Jr. | Todd Pletcher |
| 7. Sandman | 9, 3-1-2 | 4-1 | John Velazquez | Mark Casse |
| 8. Clever Again | 3, 2-1-0 | 5-1 | Jose Ortiz | Steven Asmussen |
| 9. Gosger | 3, 2-1-0 | 20-1 | Luis Saez | Brendan Walsh |
Preakness Stakes Results Over the Years
Take a stroll down memory lane with these notable results:
- 2024: *Seize the Grey* (9-1)
- 2023: *National Treasure* (5-2)
- 2022: *Early Voting* (5-1)
- 2023: *Rombauer* (11-1)
- 2020: *Swiss Skydiver* (11-1)
This history shows that there’s potential for double-digit odds winners, but don’t expect shocking upsets. Despite the reduced field size, none have come from over **15-1** in the last 15 years. Recent victors didn’t compete in the Kentucky Derby, which could impact **Journalism**, **American Promise**, and **Sandman**. Historical trends suggest it’s wise to consider horses that have had over a month of rest.
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Spotting the Favorites
When assessing the favorites, **Journalism** stands tall as the overwhelming frontrunner. Having finished as the runner-up in the Kentucky Derby, he boasts an impressive track record. With no **Sovereignty** to worry about this time, his **Grade 1** and two **Grade 2** wins make him the horse to beat.
Right on his heels is **Sandman** with morning-line odds of **4-1**. Despite a disappointing Derby finish, his **Grade 1 Arkansas Derby** victory showcases a high ceiling that can’t be ignored.
The Early Speedsters
Meet **Goal Oriented**, a perfect **2-for-2** contender stepping up from a more relaxed competition to a **Grade 1.** His early lead strategy, paired with jockey **Flavien Prat**, makes him a significant threat.
On the other hand, **American Promise** aims for redemption after a lackluster Derby drive. His prior win at the **$500k Virginia Stakes** highlights his capability to take control early, raising expectations for his performance in the Preakness.
The Closers’ Club
**Clever Again** may not appear to fit the closer profile, but his impressive gate-to-wire victories indicate he could adopt a different strategy against stiffer competition. In his previous races, he’s consistently expanded his lead in the stretch.
Expect **Gosger**, a long shot at **20-1**, to capitalize on a hot pace. His recent ascent from maiden ranks to a **Grade 3** win at Keeneland demonstrates his talent and readiness to compete at a higher level.
Betting Strategies to Consider
Understanding betting techniques can enhance your experience:
- Win Bet: The most straightforward wager—pick a horse to win purely.
- Place Bet: Unlike a win, this allows payouts if your horse lands in the top two.
- Show Bet: Be rewarded if your horse finishes in the top three. Ideal for longer odds.
- Across the Board: This strategy offers multiple ways to win as it covers win, place, and show.
- Exacta: Correctly predict the top two finishers. You can box horses to maximize your win chances.
- Trifecta: A challenge, but worth the reward. Predict the top three finishers in order.
- Superfecta: For the bold, pick the top four—considering longshots can pay off greatly.
- Daily Double: Keep the excitement with two consecutive races; the combinations can be endless!
Preakness Predictions: Who Will Take Home the Gold?
**Journalism** is undeniably the horse to beat, expertly handling each challenge thrown at him. Yet, with many horses favoring lengthy breaks, there’s a potential for surprises. For a thrilling finish, I’m banking on **Clever Again** alongside *Jose Ortiz* to clinch the victory—their synergy could lead them to success once more!
My Bets:
- Win: 8
- Exacta: 6/7,8 ($5 wager costs $10)
- Trifecta: 2/6,7,8/4,6,7,8 ($1 wager costs $9)
