2025 Preakness Stakes Predictions and Picks: Who Will Win the Second Jewel of the Triple Crown?

The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes, scheduled for May 17, 2025, promises to deliver excitement, intrigue, and betting opportunities for racing enthusiasts.

With the Kentucky Derby winner opting out of the race, the field opens up for contenders to seize their moment at Pimlico.

Based on expert insights from Marco D’Angelo, and Sean Alvarez, here’s an in-depth breakdown of the top contenders and how bettors should approach this prestigious race.

Preakness 2025 Top Contenders

Journalism: The Favorite with a Strong Resume

Despite finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, Journalism remains the class of the field. His high buyer speed figures, especially the 108 in the San Felipe, mark him as the most capable three-year-old.

However, the short turnaround of two weeks is a concern, especially with trainer Michael McCarthy’s limited history of quick returns. Still, his tactical positioning and experience make him the horse to beat.

River Tames: Tactical and Dangerous

Trained by Todd Pletcher and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., River Tames skipped the Derby with this race in mind.

His third-place finish in the Blue Grass Stakes revealed endurance and competitiveness despite signs of fatigue.

With a good break, this horse can be in a prime stalking position and make a decisive move down the stretch.

Clever Again: Rising Star with Speed

Boasting a triple-digit 101 buyer figure and trained by a high-profile connection, Clever Again is peaking at the right time.

He has proven speed and the ability to control the pace if he breaks well. As this is only his third career start, there is room for another step forward, making him a live upset candidate.

American Promise: The Wise Guy Pick

Disappointing in the Derby due to a chaotic trip, American Promise could redeem himself at Pimlico. Trained by D. Wayne Lukas, he’s expected to sit just behind the leaders and pounce on moderate fractions. Bettors should not ignore this value play, especially if he breaks cleanly.

2025 Preakness Horses to Fade

• Sandman: Though popular due to social media buzz, his Derby performance exposed limitations. Overbetting due to influencer marketing makes him a poor value.
• Pay Billy: A feel-good local story with weak speed figures. Lack of class makes him a pass.
• Heart of Honor & Gazer: Concerns about shipping form and post position suggest these horses will struggle.

2025 Preakness Best Bets and Predictions

Marco’s top picks are:

• Win: Journalism (at 8-5 seen as an overlay)
• Use in Exotics: Clever Again, American Promise, River Tames

Sean’s selections include:

• Win: River Tames
• Value Bets: Goal Oriented, Gazer
• Use in Exotics: Journalism (not as a win bet)

Both recommend exacta boxes combining Journalism and Grande, suggesting bettors consider blending favorites with value picks.

2025 Kentucky Derby Picks and Derby Horses Premium Picks!

Marco D’Angelo, a long-time horse racing enthusiast, breeder, and owner since 1986, brings decades of hands-on experience to the table. Sean Alvarez, also a veteran bettor, complements Marco’s insight with sharp analytical skills, having previously nailed high-payout bets like the Mage 15-1 pick in past Derbies.

Kentucky Derby Final Thoughts

Bettors should structure their tickets around Journalism as a key horse in exactas and trifectas. Add value picks like River Tames and Clever Again in top slots, while sneaking in longshots like American Promise and Gazer for deeper exotics.

Avoid favorites driven purely by hype and focus on horses with tactical speed and strong form cycles.