Top 2025 Preakness Stakes Picks: Win, Place & Show Predictions
The 150th edition of the Preakness Stakes is set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at historic Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, Maryland. With Kentucky Derby champion Sovereignty opting out, a competitive field of nine remains ready to battle for the second jewel of the Triple Crown — and potentially grab racing glory in the Run for the Black-Eyed Susans.
After reviewing the field, analyzing recent performances, and breaking down speed figures and race setups, here are my top selections for your Preakness wagers this Saturday.
🏆 Best Bet to Win the Preakness: Clever Again (+500)
Clever Again is my top choice to win this year’s Preakness. Trained by Steve Asmussen and guided by Jose Ortiz, this promising colt has already built an impressive resume with two victories and a runner-up finish from just three starts.
His latest win came in the Hot Springs Stakes at Oaklawn Park, where he wired the field and turned in a 101 Beyer Speed Figure — one of only two triple-digit speed figures in the field. That performance suggests he’s peaking at exactly the right time.
While he’s shown early speed in prior starts, the likely pace scenario at Pimlico could see him tracking just off the leaders, including Goal Oriented, before unleashing his run at the top of the stretch. With a strong pedigree — being a son of Triple Crown winner American Pharoah — and a favorable setup, Clever Again offers excellent value at 5-1 odds.
🥈 Place Bet Prediction: Journalism (+160)
Although he’s not my top pick to win, Journalism can’t be overlooked for a strong finish. Trained by Michael McCarthy and piloted by Umberto Rispoli, the Kentucky Derby runner-up brings consistency and class to the table.
He’s finished in the top three in all six of his career starts and recorded a 108 Beyer Speed Figure in the San Felipe Stakes — the fastest by any three-year-old this season. Journalism’s versatile running style should serve him well at Pimlico, especially with multiple speed horses likely to force a strong early pace.
Even with a quick turnaround from the Derby, his experience and closing kick make him a safe and strategic place bet at 8-5 odds. He’s also a key horse for exacta and trifecta wagers.
🥉 Show Bet Prediction: River Thames (+450)
For the show position, I like River Thames, trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr. With two wins, a second, and a third in four career starts, this colt has never been beaten by more than a length.
He skipped the Kentucky Derby to focus on the Preakness — a wise move that gives him a freshness advantage. River Thames consistently posts Beyer Speed Figures in the low-to-mid 90s, which puts him in the mix with this field.
Expect him to sit just off the leaders and make his move turning for home. His tactical positioning and reliable form make him a great option to finalize trifecta and superfecta bets. At 9-2 odds, he represents strong value and could even push into the top two if the pace scenario unfolds in his favor.
🔍 Longshots Worth a Look
While my top three form the foundation of a strong wagering strategy, a few sleepers in the field could add spice to your exotic bets:
– Goal Oriented (6-1): Trained by Bob Baffert and ridden by Flavien Prat, this unbeaten colt breaks from the rail and could control the early tempo. Dangerous if left alone on the lead.
– Gosger (20-1): A deep closer who won the Lexington Stakes and could capitalize if the front-runners fade late.
– American Promise (15-1): Trained by D. Wayne Lukas, he didn’t fire in the Derby but could bounce back with better positioning and a less crowded field.
📊 2025 Preakness Stakes Odds (FanDuel, May 17)
– Journalism: +160
– Clever Again: +500
– River Thames: +450
– Goal Oriented: +600
– American Promise: +1500
– Gosger: +2000
– Others: Check race day betting boards for full lineup
🏁 Final Thoughts
While this year’s Preakness lacks a Triple Crown storyline, it still offers bettors a compelling mix of talent, pace dynamics, and opportunity. With Sovereignty out, the race feels wide open — and smart betting starts with horses who are trending upward, well-rested, and well-positioned.
My recommended bets: Clever Again to win, Journalism to place, and River Thames to show. Pair these with longshot combinations in exacta, trifecta, or superfecta bets for the potential of a big payoff.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: SCCGManagement.com
