In the world of horse racing, anticipation is high as fans gear up for one of the most prestigious events in the sport—the Preakness Stakes. As part of the Triple Crown series, the stakes are raised with the introduction of the Preakness Stakes Future Win Wager, allowing fans to place their bets weeks before the race even begins. This unique betting opportunity adds an extra layer of excitement to the already electrifying atmosphere surrounding the event.
The Maryland Jockey Club, in collaboration with 1/ST Racing, has unveiled the field and morning line odds for the eagerly awaited Preakness Stakes Future Win Wager. Among the contenders, Journalism stands out as the clear favorite, boasting impressive credentials that have captured the attention of both seasoned bettors and casual observers alike. With a remarkable streak of four consecutive wins, including the prestigious Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby, this Curlin colt has demonstrated exceptional talent and potential.
Trained meticulously by Michael McCarthy, Journalism's journey to prominence has been nothing short of extraordinary. His recent victory in the Santa Anita Derby not only solidified his status as a leading contender but also highlighted his adaptability and resilience. As speculation mounts regarding his next appearance in the Grade 1 Kentucky Derby, expectations are sky-high for what promises to be another thrilling performance.
Beyond Journalism, other notable contenders are making waves in the racing community. Cornucopian, a $1.1 million yearling sired by Into Mischief and trained by the legendary Bob Baffert, has shown immense promise despite a challenging debut. After capturing the hearts of many with an impressive career start at Oaklawn, Cornucopian faced stiff competition in the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby, finishing a respectable fourth as the odds-on favorite.
Another standout performer is Baeza, whose second-place finish in the Santa Anita Derby has earned him significant recognition. Under the guidance of John Shirreffs, Baeza showcased remarkable determination, coming within three-quarters of a length behind Journalism. With plans to enter the Kentucky Derby as an also-eligible contender, Baeza continues to prove that he belongs among the elite in the world of thoroughbred racing.
While Journalism, Cornucopian, and Baeza dominate the headlines, the broader field offers intriguing possibilities for those willing to take a chance on less heralded names. Pay Billy, for instance, has carved out a niche for himself with an automatic berth into the Preakness secured through his victory in Laurel Park’s Federico Tesio Stakes. Trained by Michael Gorham for RKTN Racing, this Improbable colt represents a compelling option for bettors seeking value beyond the top-tier favorites.
Among the long shots and lesser-known competitors, there lies untapped potential waiting to be discovered. Clever Again, Gosger, River Thames, Sandman, and Sovereignty each bring their own unique qualities to the table, offering hope to those who dare to dream big. The allure of finding a hidden gem in the vast landscape of horse racing is one that continues to draw enthusiasts from all walks of life.
For those unfamiliar with the intricacies of future wagering, the Preakness Stakes Future Win Wager provides an accessible entry point into the world of horse racing betting. Opening on Friday, April 25, at noon ET, this separate wagering pool allows participants to place "WIN" bets on the outcome of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course on May 17. With a minimum bet requirement of $2 and an 18 percent takeout rate, the wager is available across all participating ADWs.
The inclusion of the pari-mutuel field, or “all other 3-year-olds,” as the 40th betting interest adds an additional layer of complexity and intrigue to the process. This feature ensures that no stone is left unturned in the quest for identifying the next big star in the racing world. As the countdown to closing time on Saturday, May 3, at 6:00 pm ET begins, bettors will have ample opportunity to refine their strategies and make informed decisions based on the latest developments in the field.