The 150th Preakness Stakes – Preview & Picks

The 2025 Preakness Stakes is set to take place on Saturday, May 17, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The first race of the day kicks off at 10:30 a.m. ET, with the Preakness Stakes itself scheduled for 7:01 p.m. ET. Fans can expect an electrifying showdown as contenders battle for the second jewel of the Triple Crown on the historic dirt track at Pimlico.

Top Contenders & Odds

• Journalism (8-5) – The Derby runner-up looking for redemption.
• Sandman (4-1) – A strong competitor with a closing style.
• River Thames (9-2) – A promising challenger.
• Clever Again (5-1) – Son of American Pharoah, with solid pedigree.
• Goal Oriented (6-1) – An emerging talent.
• Heart of Honor (12-1) – A consistent performer.
• American Promise (15-1) – A Derby contender looking to improve.
• Pay Billy (20-1) – A dark horse with potential.
• Gosger (20-1) – A longshot hoping to surprise.\

Handicap:  

The way that I am approaching this race is simple.   Journalism is by far the best horse here.   It isn’t good news that he is so favored at about 1/1, but at the same time, we can put a little bit more on our tickets for him to hit the big one.   My strategy is to go bigger on the exotics with Tris and Exactas with Journalism on top.   I think that the second position might be good for River Thames, Clever Again, and Goal Oriented.   I do have a sleeper in this race in American Promise.   This horse was a sharp side in the Kentucky derby.   He had a bad trip on a sloppy track, and his price is just too good to pass up for the Preakness.  Sandman is a favorite that I will be fading once again, but I will add Sandman to my exactas as a savor situation.  Here is my ticket with the total investment of $250.   You could split it in half and pay $125 if you wish.   Best of luck everyone!