Here’s a comprehensive betting preview for the 2025 Preakness Stakes, scheduled for Saturday, May 17, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. The race, the 150th edition, boasts a $2 million purse and a field of nine contenders.
2025 Preakness Stakes Field & Odds
Post Horse Odds Jockey Trainer
1 Goal Oriented +800 Flavien Prat Bob Baffert
2 Journalism -110 Umberto Rispoli Michael McCarthy
3 American Promise +1800 Nik Juarez D. Wayne Lukas
4 Heart of Honor +2800 Saffie Osborne Jamie Osborne
5 Pay Billy +4000 Raul E. Mena Michael E. Gorham
6 River Thames +650 Irad Ortiz Jr. Todd A. Pletcher
7 Sandman +700 John R. Velazquez Mark E. Casse
8 Clever Again +450 José Ortiz Steven M. Asmussen
9 Gosger +2000 Luis Saez Brendan P. Walsh
2025 Preakness Stakes Top Contenders
1. Journalism (-110)
Overview: According to oddsmakers from online sportsbook Bovada.lv, Journalism is the current favorite to win this year’s Preakness Stakes. Journalism finished second in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, showcasing his class and consistency .
Betting Insight: Despite being the favorite, his odds are relatively favorable for a horse of his caliber, making him a solid win bet.
2. Clever Again (+450)
Overview: Known for his front-running style, Clever Again has demonstrated impressive early speed and stamina .
Betting Insight: His tactical speed could give him an edge, especially if the race unfolds with a fast pace.
3. River Thames (+650)
Overview: A consistent performer, River Thames has shown the ability to close strong in races .
Betting Insight: Could benefit from a fast pace, allowing him to close late and secure a top position.
4. Sandman (+700)
Overview: A deep closer, Sandman has the potential to make a strong late run, though his Derby performance was underwhelming .
Betting Insight: If the pace is swift, he could surprise at a decent price.
2025 Preakness Stakes Betting Strategy
Win Bet
Primary: Journalism (-110)
Secondary: Clever Again (+450)
Place Bet
Primary: River Thames (+650)
Secondary: Sandman (+700)
Show Bet
Primary: Clever Again (+450)
Secondary: Gosger (+2000)
Exacta (1st & 2nd)
Combination: Journalism / Clever Again
Combination: Clever Again / River Thames
Trifecta (1st, 2nd & 3rd)
Combination: Journalism / Clever Again / River Thames
Combination: Clever Again / River Thames / Sandman
Longshot to Consider
Gosger (+2000): A true longshot, Gosger’s odds reflect his outsider status, but every year has its surprise contender.
2025 Preakness Stakes Final Thoughts
The 2025 Preakness Stakes presents a competitive field with several strong contenders. Journalism stands out as the favorite, but Clever Again’s tactical speed and River Thames’s closing ability make them formidable opponents. For those looking to take a risk, Gosger offers potential value at long odds. As always, consider the pace scenario and track conditions, as they can significantly impact race outcomes.