The 2025 Preakness Stakes is just days away, and with a field full of potential surprises, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your bets. Set for May 17 at Pimlico, this year’s race offers plenty of intrigue, especially with the Derby winner sitting out.
Now is the time to analyze the contenders, track the odds, and look for opportunities that might give you an edge as the race approaches.
This Year’s Potential Top Contenders
The 2025 Kentucky Derby saw Sovereignty take the crown, but the horse won’t compete in the Preakness Stakes, leaving the field wide open. With the Derby winner out, several fresh contenders are now in the spotlight, each with their strengths.
As the race approaches, odds fluctuate, and platforms like FanDuel update their lines to reflect these changes. Bettors can track these shifts closely as they look to place smart wagers on the following horses shaping up for a shot at Preakness glory.
1. Journalism
Journalism made a name for himself with a solid second-place finish at the 2025 Kentucky Derby. Sired by Curlin and out of Mopotism, he showed impressive resilience, particularly in the high-pressure environment of the Derby. His ability to recover and maintain a steady pace, even when overtaken by Sovereignty, highlighted his stamina, an essential quality for the Preakness.
McCarthy has shaped Journalism into a contender with a great tactical advantage. While his Preakness odds are currently set at 15-1, there’s real value for bettors who believe in his potential to perform under the unique conditions of Pimlico. His previous victories, including a strong showing in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) in April 2025, suggest he could thrive in the shorter Preakness race.
Despite his impressive form, Journalism’s participation in the Preakness is not yet confirmed. McCarthy stated that the decision will depend on how well the horse recovers from the Derby.
2. Rodriguez
Rodriguez, the 2025 Wood Memorial (G2) winner, has shown impressive speed and stamina. His front-running victory in the Wood Memorial under jockey Mike Smith demonstrated his ability to dominate a race from the start, an advantage crucial in the Preakness.
Trainer Bob Baffert, known for his success in major races, is confident that Rodriguez can take the second jewel of the Triple Crown, provided he remains in peak form.
Rodriguez’s pedigree, sired by Quality Road, combined with his recent performances, makes him a strong contender. However, his participation in the Preakness is still pending due to a bruised foot that led to his scratching from the Kentucky Derby.
If cleared, he could prove a force to reckon with in the Preakness. Bettors should monitor updates from Baffert and official race announcements for final confirmation.
3. Pay Billy
Pay Billy is a rising star entering the 2025 Preakness Stakes with momentum and a compelling story. After a solid start to his career, he has been exceptional in his 3-year-old campaign.
Notably, he secured a spot in the Preakness by winning the Federico Tesio Stakes at Laurel Park on April 19, earning an automatic berth in the race.
This colt has demonstrated impressive versatility, excelling in both one-turn and two-turn races. His tactical speed allows him to press the pace effectively, and his recent victories suggest he’s in peak form heading into the Preakness. While his odds are set at 30-1, his recent performances and the guidance of trainer Mike Gorham make him a sleeper pick for bettors looking for value.
4. Clever Again
Clever Again, sired by Triple Crown winner American Pharoah, has the pedigree to compete at the highest levels. His recent victory in the Hot Springs Stakes at Oaklawn Park, where he earned a career-best Equibase Speed Figure of 108, showcased his impressive form. Under the guidance of trainer Steve Asmussen, known for his success at Pimlico, Clever Again has proven he can rise to the occasion when it matters most.
While his racing career has been steady, his ability to handle Pimlico’s challenging conditions and maintain consistent performance will be key. His tactical speed and pacesetting style make him a horse to watch in the 2025 Preakness Stakes.
Jose Ortiz, who won the Preakness in 2022, will ride him, adding confidence to his chances. At 15-1 odds, Clever Again could offer solid value for bettors looking for a well-bred longshot.
5. River Thames
After a close second-place finish in the Fountain of Youth, River Thames chose to skip the Kentucky Derby in favor of targeting the Preakness.
His decision to focus on this race shows his trainer Todd Pletcher’s strategic approach, and it’s likely that River Thames will be more rested than some of the Derby horses. His running style is tactical, and with Irad Ortiz Jr. on board, he’ll have one of the best jockeys in the business navigating Pimlico’s twists and turns.
River Thames’ ability to maintain pace and adapt to different race conditions makes him a strong contender in a field that’s likely to include some tired Derby runners. Expect this horse to be ready for the challenge, and with the right conditions, he could make a serious run for the top spot.
Wrapping Up
The 2025 Preakness Stakes is shaping to be an exciting, wide-open race, especially with Sovereignty skipping the event. From fresh faces to seasoned contenders, there are several horses worth keeping an eye on. As always, base your bets on more than just hype. Track the contenders, analyze their form, and watch how the field develops as race day approaches. With the right strategy, this year’s Preakness could reward the attentive and savvy bettor.
