Preakness Stakes Preview – Odds – Picks

The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, the second jewel of the Triple Crown, is set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Pimlico in Baltimore, Maryland. It is scheduled for 7:00pm and will be shown on NBC.

This historic Grade 1 race, covering 1 3/16 miles on dirt, offers a $2 million purse and features a competitive nine-horse field. With Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty opting for the Belmont Stakes, the door is open for a new champion to claim the prestigious Woodlawn Vase. Here’s a preview of the key contenders, race dynamics, and what to expect.

Preakness Stakes Odds

odds by SportsBetting.ag

1. Goal Oriented 6-1
2. Journalism 8-5
3. American Promise 15-1
4. Heart of Honor 12-1
5. Pay Billy 20-1
6. River Thames 9-2
7. Sandman 4-1
8. Clever Again 5-1
9. Gosger 20-1

Our Underdog Pick to Win: Goal Oriented

Computer Prediction – Exacta

This Preakness shapes up as a clash between experience (Journalism) and emerging talent (Clever Again, Goal Oriented). Journalism’s consistency makes him the likely winner, but Clever Again’s speed and pedigree make him a dangerous upset pick, especially at 5-1. Goal Oriented’s Baffert factor and River Thames’s post position add intrigue. Look for a fast-paced race where tactical speed could trump late closers.

Projected Finish: 1. Journalism, 2. Clever Again, 3. Goal Oriented, 4. River Thames.