The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course is turning out to be one of the most unpredictable yet thrilling moments in horse racing history. Preakness odds were completely reshuffled early this morning following the unexpected withdrawal of Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty due to a minor ankle issue. The exit of the front-runner has now elevated Journalism to the top spot among contenders, sending a ripple through betting boards and fan predictions alike.
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📉 Sharp Movement in Preakness Odds Just Hours Before the Race
As the buzz intensifies just hours before post time, bettors are watching closely. Preakness odds now list Journalism at a sharp 8-5, taking over the pole position with confidence. Trained to peak late and finish strong, the colt is entering the track with high expectations and a clean bill of health.
Close behind is Sandman, sitting at 4-1, and Clever Again at 5-1, both of whom have had solid spring runs. The betting window has seen a surge, with last-minute adjustments shaping the final odds board.
🧠 Expert Breakdown – Top Contenders at a Glance
Here’s a quick breakdown of the most watched contenders for this year’s Preakness Stakes:
- Journalism (8-5)
⚡ Front-runner with a strong finish in the Derby
⚡ Excellent on fast tracks - Sandman (4-1)
💨 Speedster known for setting the early pace
💨 Well-suited to today’s dry conditions - Clever Again (5-1)
🧠 Smart and steady, thrives in mid-pack strategy
🧠 Potential upset maker if top two stumble - River Thames (9-2)
🔄 Versatile style, effective under pressure
🔄 One to watch if the pace shifts early
🏇 Field of Nine Horses – Official Preakness Lineup & Odds
| Post | Horse | Odds |
|---|---|---|
| 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 |
🔍 Weather & Track Insights – Advantage to Speed Horses
Today’s weather at Pimlico couldn’t be more perfect for a classic race. The track is listed as fast, with temperatures hovering around 85°F and dry skies expected through the evening. These conditions play well for early pace horses like Sandman, although Journalism has proven his ability to close late on dry dirt.
Trainers are reportedly keeping warm-ups light this afternoon to preserve speed for the stretch run. Expect to see sharp breaks out of the gate.
🧾 Preakness Odds and Betting Trends: What Bettors Are Doing
As the odds board continues to fluctuate, here are three key trends from today:
- Smart money is stacking behind Journalism, particularly for straight win bets.
- Exacta combinations featuring Journalism and Clever Again have gained popularity, offering mid-range payouts with strong likelihood.
- River Thames has attracted sleeper bets, indicating some believe the 9-2 odds could pay well if the top picks stumble.
📺 Race Details: Time, Viewing, and What to Expect
- Start Time: 7:01 p.m. EDT
- Location: Pimlico Race Course, Baltimore
- Coverage: Watch on NBC or stream via Peacock
- Purse: $1.5 million
Commentators and analysts are pointing toward a close and potentially dramatic finish. With the Derby winner out, it’s truly anyone’s race.
🔮 Final Word on the Preakness Odds Today
With last-minute surprises reshaping expectations, the Preakness odds are reflecting a wide-open field and intense betting interest. Journalism may wear the favorite’s tag, but Sandman and Clever Again are more than capable of springing an upset.
What makes this Preakness edition unique is the balance. There is no uncatchable powerhouse. Each contender has a window of opportunity, and fans are leaning into the unpredictability.
If you’re planning to place a bet, now is the time. Watch for sudden changes right up until post time. Odds have been anything but stable today.
📢 Ready to Ride the Action?
The gate is about to open, and the energy is electric. Whether you’re cheering from the stands or tracking your bets from home—this is one Preakness you don’t want to miss. Keep an eye on the Preakness odds, and may the best horse charge home first!