Everything You Need to Know for the 2025 Preakness Stakes

Much like the holes in denim or the gaps in children’s teeth, the 2025 Preakness Stakes draws attention not only to what’s there, but also what is absent.

Not Present: Sovereignty

The Kentucky Derby winner Sovereignty will not compete in the Preakness, as his team announced he’ll aim for the Belmont Stakes instead, becoming the second Derby champion in four years to skip the Preakness for non-medical reasons, following Rich Strike in 2022.

Present: Journalism

This year, Journalism stands out as a potential favorite. He entered the Kentucky Derby as a promising prospect and, despite finishing second, he remains a contender. With four wins in six races and stellar speed figures, he has been set as an 8-5 morning-line favorite for the Preakness.

In terms of competition, another strong contender—Sandman—will also look to recover after a disappointing Derby finish. He secured a spot as second favorite at 4-1.

Among the six new horses entering the Preakness, River Thames stands out with morning-line odds of 9-2. Trained by Todd Pletcher, who is aiming for his first Preakness win, River Thames bypassed the Derby despite qualifying.

Bob Baffert, the trainer with the most Preakness wins (eight), is entering Goal Oriented, a promising newcomer in this race.

Key Details of the 150th Preakness Stakes

What: 150th Preakness Stakes
Where: Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, MD
Who: Nine 3-year-old horses
Purse: $2 million
Distance: 1 3/16 miles
Post Time: 7:01 PM ET
Weather: Humid with possible thunderstorms and a high of 88 degrees.

For real-time betting odds on the participating horses, experts will weigh in with their strategies and insights leading up to the event. Below are some current odds as of the latest update:

Explore more on SportsLine as race day approaches.