Journalism Favored in Preakness Stakes

Kentucky Derby runner-up Journalism has opened as the 8-5 morning line favorite for the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes. The horse, trained by Michael McCarthy, will be ridden by jockey Umberto Rispoli and will start from the No. 2 post position. The race is set for 7:01 p.m. EDT on Saturday at Pimlico Race Course in Halethorpe, Maryland.

Bob Baffert's Confidence

Two-time Triple Crown-winning trainer Bob Baffert expressed confidence in Journalism's performance. "He should be the favorite," Baffert said. "He ran a great Derby. Usually, a horse with a good Derby form will run well in the Preakness." Baffert, who has won the Preakness a record eight times, is also saddling No. 1 Goal Oriented in hopes of securing a ninth victory.

The Competition

The field of nine does not include Sovereignty, the Kentucky Derby winner, whose owners and trainer decided not to run him two weeks after his triumph at Churchill Downs. No. 7 Sandman is the 4-1 second choice, while American Promise, trained by D. Wayne Lukas, drew the No. 3 post and opened at odds of 15-1.

Other Contenders

Other notable entries include No. 4 Heart of Honor (12-1), No. 5 Pay Billy (20-1), No. 6 River Thames (9-2), No. 8 Clever Again (5-1), and No. 9 Gosger (20-1). River Thames represents trainer Todd Pletcher's latest chance to win the Preakness for the first time in his Hall of Fame career.

Final Thoughts

With a mix of seasoned contenders and fresh talent, the 150th Preakness Stakes promises to be an exciting event. All eyes will be on Journalism as he aims to redeem his narrow loss in the Kentucky Derby and secure a victory in this prestigious race.