Preakness Stakes 2025: A Wide-Open Race After Derby Winner Scratches

The anticipation is palpable as the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the Preakness Stakes, looms large on the horizon this weekend. Pimlico Race Course is gearing up to host what promises to be a thrilling contest, albeit one tinged with a sense of what might have been. Traditionally, the Preakness serves as a crucial litmus test, revealing whether the Kentucky Derby victor possesses the stamina and fortitude necessary to pursue the elusive Triple Crown. However, this year’s narrative has taken an unexpected turn, significantly altering the dynamics of the race.

The news that Sovereignty, the triumphant champion of the Kentucky Derby, has been withdrawn from the Preakness Stakes has sent ripples throughout the horse racing community. This unforeseen development has effectively blown the race wide open, creating a level playing field where a new contender will undoubtedly emerge to claim victory. The absence of Sovereignty removes the presumptive favorite and introduces an element of unpredictability that heightens the excitement for both seasoned racing enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

The Preakness Stakes is renowned for its demanding conditions and its ability to test the mettle of even the most accomplished thoroughbreds. The 1 3/16-mile distance presents a unique challenge, requiring a blend of speed, stamina, and tactical prowess. With Sovereignty out of the picture, the remaining horses will have to navigate this demanding course without the looming presence of the Derby champion. This shift in the competitive landscape necessitates a reevaluation of each contender’s chances and introduces the possibility of an upset victory.

As is customary in horse racing, the post position draw plays a pivotal role in shaping the odds and influencing the outcome of the race. The location of each horse in the starting gate can significantly impact their ability to secure a favorable position early in the race, potentially affecting their energy expenditure and overall strategy. A well-placed post position can provide a clear path to the lead, while a less advantageous position may force a horse to expend more energy navigating traffic or running wide on the turns.

With the post positions now officially determined, the latest odds for each horse participating in the 2025 Preakness Stakes have been released, providing valuable insights into the perceived chances of each contender. These odds, as provided by The Preakness Stakes, offer a glimpse into the collective wisdom of handicappers and racing experts, reflecting their assessment of each horse’s potential to succeed in this prestigious race.

Journalism: The Early Favorite Emerges

Among the field of talented thoroughbreds vying for victory in the Preakness Stakes, Journalism has emerged as the clear frontrunner, capturing the attention of racing enthusiasts and bookmakers alike. The colt’s impressive track record and consistent performance have solidified its position as the horse to beat, making it the early favorite in this year’s race.

Journalism’s remarkable consistency is a testament to its inherent talent and the meticulous training it has received. The colt has demonstrated an uncanny ability to perform at a high level in every race it has contested, consistently delivering impressive results and solidifying its reputation as a reliable and formidable competitor. What truly sets Journalism apart from its rivals is its exceptional speed score, which currently stands at an impressive 111. This remarkable figure underscores the colt’s raw speed and its ability to maintain a blistering pace throughout the duration of a race.

That stellar résumé is reflected in the odds. Journalisms 8-5 odds are way higher than the next-best horse, Sandman, who sits at 4-1 currently.

Rodriguez Out, Leaving Only One Derby Horse

The Preakness Stakes has suffered another blow with the withdrawal of Rodriguez, further thinning the ranks of horses who competed in the Kentucky Derby. This latest scratch leaves only a single contender from the Derby field remaining in the Preakness, underscoring the challenges faced by horses attempting to compete in all three Triple Crown races. The rigorous schedule and demanding nature of these races often take a toll on the horses, leading to withdrawals due to injury or fatigue. The absence of multiple Derby contenders further accentuates the wide-open nature of this year’s Preakness, making it a race where virtually any horse has a chance to emerge victorious.

Factors to Watch

As the Preakness Stakes draws near, several key factors will influence the outcome of the race. The weather conditions on race day can significantly impact the track surface, potentially favoring horses with a particular preference for either a fast or muddy track. The pace of the race will also play a crucial role, as a fast early pace could set up a late run for closers, while a slower pace may favor horses with tactical speed.

The jockeys’ ability to navigate the challenging Pimlico Race Course will also be paramount. The track’s tight turns and relatively short stretch require skilled horsemanship and strategic decision-making. The jockeys’ ability to position their horses effectively, conserve energy, and make timely moves will be critical to their success.

The 2025 Preakness Stakes promises to be a captivating event, filled with drama and uncertainty. With the absence of the Kentucky Derby winner and the emergence of Journalism as the early favorite, the race is poised to deliver a thrilling spectacle for horse racing enthusiasts around the globe.