With the Kentucky Derby winner stepping aside, the 2025 Preakness Stakes is turning into one of the most wide-open races in recent memory. That’s great news for anyone watching closely, because when favorites are absent, the underdogs often steal the show.
As the race draws nearer, we’re deeply diving into who’s confirmed for Pimlico and who won’t be showing up. It’s all about reading the tea leaves of each contender’s form and understanding where the real value lies in the betting pool.
1. Journalism
Journalism entered the Preakness Stakes as one of the strongest contenders after finishing second in the 2025 Kentucky Derby. While he couldn’t clinch the win, his resilience and tactical running style were on full display.
His ability to maintain a strong pace and recover in the stretch shows he has the stamina needed for the shorter Preakness distance. Trained by Michael McCarthy, who has a track record of getting his horses in peak form, Journalism’s pedigree and Derby performance make him a clear contender.
Journalism’s ability to adapt and control the pace will be crucial in a race as tactical as the Preakness. Given his solid second-place finish in the Derby, all signs point to him being a strong contender, and monitoring his workouts will help bettors assess how well he’s positioned.
As Preakness day draws near, bettors will look closely at platforms like FanDuel to get the latest odds, expert picks, and race-day insights. These odds not only shape betting decisions but also offer a glimpse into which horses are getting the most attention and which ones might offer a bigger payout. Even if you’re new to horse racing, watching how the odds move is a great way to get into the action.
2. Rodriguez
Rodriguez, winner of the Wood Memorial, has already made a name for himself in 2025. His impressive speed, especially in the early stages of a race, makes him a serious contender for the Preakness.
One of the most successful trainers in recent history, Todd Pletcher, has had Rodriguez on a trajectory for greatness. After missing the Kentucky Derby due to a foot injury, Rodriguez is fresh and ready to take on the challenge at Pimlico.
He could control the tempo and wear down the field if he could get a clean start and secure an early lead in the Preakness. Bettors will want to watch how he handles Pimlico’s conditions, but early indications suggest he has what it takes to make a big run.
3. Pay Billy
Pay Billy has quietly built a strong resume this year, earning an automatic spot in the Preakness with his victory in the Federico Tesio Stakes. While his odds are set at a healthy 30-1, his win in the Tesio showcased his ability to compete with top horses. Mike Gorham’s training and Raul Mena’s jockey skills make this horse an intriguing longshot for bettors looking for a value pick.
His tactical running style and his ability to control the pace in shorter races make him a candidate to watch. If he can adapt to the competitive environment at Pimlico, Pay Billy could outperform expectations. Given the depth of the field, he’s a horse to consider for those looking to take a calculated risk. His victory in the Federico Tesio Stakes is a testament to his form, and bettors will want to watch his final workouts.
4. Clever Again
Clever Again is a colt that carries the legacy of American Pharoah, one of the greatest Triple Crown champions. His pedigree alone makes him an intriguing prospect for the Preakness.
Under the tutelage of Steve Asmussen, a trainer with a history of success at Pimlico, Clever Again has shown promise in his recent races. His impressive win in the Hot Springs Stakes gave him the confidence boost he needed heading into the Preakness.
With Jose Ortiz, who has a strong record at Pimlico, riding him, Clever Again has the tools to challenge the top contenders. His odds reflect some uncertainty, but his form and bloodlines make him a serious horse to watch.
5. River Thames
After a solid second-place finish in the Fountain of Youth, River Thames opted to bypass the Kentucky Derby and focus on the Preakness. This strategic decision positions him as a well-rested and fresh horse heading into the race. Irad Ortiz Jr., one of the top jockeys in the world, will take the reins, giving River Thames a top-tier advantage in a competitive field.
What sets River Thames apart is his ability to adapt his running style to different race conditions. His experience in high-stakes races shows he can handle the pressure of a big event like the Preakness. If he can stay close to the pace and make his move at the right time, he could be a major player in this year’s race.
Horses Not Competing in the 2025 Preakness Stakes
While the 2025 Preakness Stakes promises to be an exciting race, some notable contenders have opted out, shifting the dynamics of the race and giving fresh faces a chance to shine. Let’s dive into the horses that won’t compete and what this means for the upcoming race.
- Sovereignty. According to trainer Bill Mott, Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby champion, will skip the Preakness and head straight to the Belmont Stakes on June 7. With this decision, the chance for a Triple Crown winner this year is off the table, leaving the Preakness wide open for other contenders. While disappointing for fans, it paves the way for new challengers to take the spotlight.
- Sandman. Originally a top Preakness contender, Sandman has also been scratched from the race. Bob Baffert, his trainer, said he will aim for the Belmont Stakes instead. This shift leaves a noticeable gap in the Preakness field, creating an opportunity for other horses to rise in the absence of such a strong contender.
Conclusion
As the 2025 Preakness Stakes approaches, the race is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. With Sovereignty sitting out, the door is wide open for fresh faces and returning contenders to step into the spotlight. Keep an eye on the final post-position draw, and stay tuned for updates as the race day approaches. The 2025 Preakness is set to be a thrilling contest, and with several promising contenders, it’s anyone’s race to win.
