Two weeks after an unforgettable Kentucky Derby, the Triple Crown trail thunders into historic Pimlico Race Course for the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes (G1) on Saturday, May 17 2025. Nine rising stars are targeting the 1 3/16‑mile test. There’s no Derby winner in the gate this year, but the middle jewel still promises pace, pedigree intrigue, and—most of all—value for bettors.
Confirmed Field (Morning‑Line Odds)
- Goal Oriented – Trainer: J. Ortiz – Jockey: I. Ortiz Jr. – 3‑1
- Journalism – B. Cox – F. Prat – 5‑1
- American Promise – T. Pletcher – J. Velázquez – 6‑1
- Heart of Honor – S. Asmussen – J. Rosario – 8‑1
- Pay Billy – D. Lukas – R. Bejarano – 10‑1
- River Thames – C. Brown – M. Franco – 12‑1
- Sandman – M. Maker – L. Saez – 15‑1
- Clever Again – K. McPeek – B. Hernández Jr. – 20‑1
- Gosger – P. Bauer – T. Gaffalione – 30‑1
(Odds are preliminary and for discussion only.)
Key Storylines
Early Speed Showdown – Goal Oriented and Clever Again both fly from the gate. Whoever clears the clubhouse turn could dictate the race.
Can Trainers Repeat the Magic? – Todd Pletcher’s last Preakness victory came with Curlin in 2007. Brad Cox is still hunting his first. Each sends a colt peaking at the right time.
Trip‑Makers vs. Trip‑Takers – Inside‑drawn Heart of Honor has endured rough trips twice this year. Pimlico’s sweeping turns may finally give him daylight.
Pace Scenario & Betting Angles
- Projected half‑mile: about 46 4/5 seconds—quick enough to sting a pure front‑runner.
- Live late kicker: River Thames—forwardly placed in the Wood, bred to go long, working sharply.
- Long‑shot exotics booster: Gosger—lightly raced “new shooter” profile that has hit the trifecta in 5 of the last 10 Preakness runnings.
Value‑play exacta (early look):
River Thames / All and All / Journalism (reverse for 50‑cent units).
Content for entertainment and information only. Wager responsibly.
The Derby makes legends, but the Preakness builds momentum—or redemption. Whether chasing a Triple Crown narrative or hunting a juicy upset, the 2025 running shapes up as a handicapper’s feast. Lock in your notes, watch the week‑of works, and trust your angles. Good luck!
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