Preakness 2025 is right around the corner, and there’s much more at play this year than just the horses. The field is stacked, but there’s no clear favorite, making it a prime event for those looking to make informed, strategic wagers.
With shifting odds and emerging horses, this year’s Preakness offers a rare chance to cash in on a wide-open race. For bettors, that means a lot of potential opportunities, but also plenty of risks.
So, let’s look further into what makes Preakness 2025 the race to bet on.
Contents
1. Sovereignty’s Withdrawal Alters the Field
Sovereignty, the 2025 Kentucky Derby winner, has officially withdrawn from the Preakness Stakes, opting instead to target the Belmont Stakes on June 7.
Trainer Bill Mott cited the colt’s long-term well-being as the reason for the decision, emphasizing the importance of giving Sovereignty ample time to recover and prepare for future challenges.
This move effectively rules out any chance of a Triple Crown winner this year, creating a significant shift in the Preakness landscape. The race is wide open without the Derby champion, allowing other contenders to enter the spotlight and vie for the coveted Black-Eyed Susans.
With this withdrawal, the race dynamics shift, and FanDuel odds are evolving to reflect these changes, giving bettors a clearer picture of emerging contenders like Journalism. Bettors can use this updated information to adjust their strategies and make more informed wagers as race day approaches.
2. Journalism Emerges as the New Favorite
With Sovereignty’s withdrawal from the Preakness Stakes, Journalism has become the new favorite. The colt’s impressive second-place finish in the Kentucky Derby has solidified its position as a top contender.
Trained by Michael McCarthy and ridden by jockey Umberto Rispoli, Journalism is poised to capitalize on the opportunity. His pedigree, sired by Curlin and out of Mopotism, adds to the excitement surrounding his potential in the upcoming race.
As the Preakness Stakes approaches, all eyes are on Journalism to see if he can seize the moment and claim victory in the second leg of the Triple Crown.
3. Rodriguez’s Comeback After Injury
Trainer Bob Baffert’s colt, Rodriguez, was a favorite for the Derby but was scratched due to a hoof injury. Now recovered, Rodriguez is set to compete in the Preakness. His return adds depth to the field and raises questions about how he will perform after the layoff.
Rodriguez was scratched from the 2025 Kentucky Derby due to a small but slightly sensitive foot bruise that required a few more days to heal. Trainer Bob Baffert confirmed the decision, stating that Rodriguez needed additional time to prepare for the race.
Despite the setback, Baffert expressed optimism about the colt’s recovery and subsequent plans. Rodriguez is now targeting the Preakness Stakes as his next race, with Baffert planning to ship him to Pimlico on May 12.
4. Clever Again as a Longshot Worth Watching
Clever Again, trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen and ridden by jockey Jose Ortiz, is emerging as a compelling longshot in the 2025 Preakness Stakes.
Currently listed at 12-1 odds, this son of 2015 Triple Crown winner American Pharoah is gaining attention for his rapid progression and impressive performances.
After a narrow second-place finish in his debut at Keeneland, Clever Again secured his maiden victory at Oaklawn Park in February, leading wire-to-wire over 1 1/16 miles. He followed that up with a dominant four-length win in the Hot Springs Stakes on March 30, earning a career-best Equibase Speed Figure of 108.
With Sovereignty’s withdrawal from the race, the field has become more open, presenting an opportunity for rising stars like Clever Again to make an impact.
5. Enhanced Fan Experience with Infield Fan Zone
The 2025 Preakness Stakes introduces the Infield Fan Zone, a revamped 21-and-older experience hosted by NFL Hall-of-Famer Ray Lewis. This new area replaces the traditional infield concert, offering attendees a more immersive and engaging atmosphere.
Located trackside just north of the iconic cupola, the Infield Fan Zone features a covered tent that can accommodate up to 3,000 guests. Attendees can enjoy bottomless beer and wine, live music and entertainment, on-site wagering stations, and a food village with local concessions and sponsor activations.
This new format aims to enhance the overall fan experience by integrating live entertainment with the excitement of the races.
Performances include a multi-song live set by three-time Grammy Award-winning artist Wyclef Jean, and a post-race performance by Grammy Award-winning artist T-Pain. Both artists will perform before guests in the grandstand and select VIP hospitality areas, with live streaming available at Pimlico.
Wrapping Up
If there’s one thing Preakness 2025 proves, it’s that this race is full of shifting dynamics. With key contenders like Sovereignty out of the running and new faces like Journalism stepping up, we’re about to witness a race that could have lasting implications for the future of the sport. If you want to make the most of this year’s unpredictable field, now is the time to strategize. Don’t wait until the last minute. The right bets at the right time could bring unexpected returns!
