Spectacular Belmont Stakes Events Await, as Triple Crown Prospect Fades

Belmont Stakes Buzz: The Sizzling 2025 Palooza

The 157th Belmont Stakes is about to serve up a blockbuster, with as many exciting storylines as a Netflix binge-worthy series. Far from being a lackluster end to the Triple Crown season, this year's race promises the drama and tension that usually comes with a sensational finale.

For those who would rather watch reruns of CBS's procedurals, the Belmont Stakes' lack of a Triple Crown hopeful typically makes it a snooze. But this year, you're in for a thrilling, star-studded showcase, and yes, that even includes the excitement of the Kentucky Derby.

The Feel-Good Factor: Journalism - A Winning Tale

Whether you're a horse racing novice or a seasoned pro, you can't help but root for underdogs like our sentimental favorite, Journalism. Following his emotional stretch victory at the Preakness Stakes, this steed captured hearts nationwide with his inspiring story.

The Bad Boy: Sovereignty - The Rule Breaker

But not everyone will be smiling at the Belmont Stakes. Sovereignty will appear as this year's villain, having thrown racing tradition for a loop by refusing to compete at the Preakness Stakes. His victory at the Kentucky Derby sparked a wave of fury among fans, who felt the missed opportunity to create a new fanbase revolving around the Derby and a potential Triple Crown winner.

The Future Star: Rodriguez - The New Kid on the Block

Newbies on the scene aren't usually everyone's cup of tea, but don't underestimate Rodriguez. This rookie's last race ended in victory at the Wood Memorial, and he's about to shake things up with the help of Hall-of-Fame trainers Bob Baffert and Mike Smith.

The Dark Horse: Baeza - The Wiseguy's Pick

And let's not forget about the horse that just may defy the odds and claim victory – Baeza, the quintessential longshot loved by professional gamblers. Less talented than his previous results might suggest, Baeza has the chance to make history by becoming the first horse to win three Classic races for his dam. No pressure, right?

Nine-Horse Derby, a Final Decision

In a race stacked with noteworthy contenders, Baeza is just one of eight horses vying for victory. Whoever ultimately emerges as the champion, the win is likely to carry an asterisk after the race was moved from Belmont Park to Saratoga Race Track and shortened to 1 1/4 miles from the traditional 1 1/2 miles. As the track organizers decided to prevent the horses from starting on a turn, they shortened the race.

Winners and Losers

Determining the starting positions for the race has provided little clarity, with Sovereignty (post 2, 4-1 odds) and Rodriguez (post 3, 6-1) expected to battle for the lead early. Jakarta, Crudo (post 5, 15-1), and Uncaged (post 8, 20-1) all have a chance to take their turns at the top. In what might be the most exciting development, Journalism (post 7, 3-1) steps into the competition.

Will the Trend Be Broken?

Riding high on the staggering prediction of a potential repeat winner, both Journalism and Sovereignty would shatter the 21-race streak without a repeat winner of a Classic race since 2018. However,achieving such a feat is easier said than done, with training a new batch of three-year-olds attempting to find the next Triple Crown contender every year.

Racing is hurting for stars, and the chase for the Triple Crown remains a beacon for produce promising prospects. The disappointment experienced after Sovereignty's connections opted to skip the Preakness Stakes prompted debates about spreading out the races to give fans a better chance of witnessing the thrilling spectacle of a Triple Crown bid.

One for the Ages

Crafting an unforgettable chapter in horse racing history, the 2025 Belmont Stakes is shaping up to be the best race of the year, including the Kentucky Derby. May the best horse win!

Behind the Scenes: A Look at the Contenders

Sovereignty

An experienced competitor, Sovereignty emerged victorious in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, besting Journalism, Baeza, and others in the grueling competition. Sovereignty's connections, however, refused to enter him in the Preakness Stakes due to the two-week time frame between the first two legs of the Triple Crown. This decision squashed any opportunity for racing to cultivate new fans centering on a potential Triple Crown champion.

Journalism

Journalism, the undeniable crowd favorite, captured the hearts of spectators with his emotional stretch win at the Preakness Stakes. Now, equipped with 3-1 odds in the Belmont Stakes, Journalism stands a strong chance of repeating his victory, becoming only the second horse since 2018 to claim a Classic race twice.

Baeza

Originally expected to compete in the Kentucky Derby, a sudden injury forced Baeza into a withdrawal from both the Derby and the Preakness Stakes. After recuperating, Baeza has been given entry into the Belmont Stakes with 4-1 odds. With noteworthy lineage that includes a dam who has earned victories in three Classic races, Baeza has the potential to achieve greatness.

Rodriguez

Trained by Hall-of-Fame trainer Bob Baffert and piloted by Mike Smith, Rodriguez, with 6-1 odds, is a wildcard contender in the upcoming race. Rodriguez raced to victory at the Wood Memorial, but a prior injury caused him to withdraw from both the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes. Following a full recovery, Rodriguez is set to thrill audiences with his return to the track.

Long Shots and Dark Horses

Crudo

Industrious and determined, Crudo, who boasts a co-ownership tie with celebrity chef Bobby Flay, enters the Belmont Stakes with 15-1 odds. Known for his spirited spirit and powerful performances in the Sir Barton Stakes at Pimlico, Crudo will fight for the victory.

Heart of Honor

Piloted by female jockey Saffie Osborne, Heart of Honor is the first British-bred colt featured in a Belmont Stakes since 2014. With 20-1 odds, Heart of Honor brings international cachet and skill to the competition, making this the perfect opportunity for a fairy-tale ending.

Jakarta

A steady and accomplished performer, Jakarta, trained by Chad Brown and ridden by Irad Ortiz Jr., has a chance to pull off an upset with 10-1 odds. With impressive performances at comparable distances, Jakarta is banking on a late surge to bring him victory.

Uncaged

Armed with determination and spirit, Uncaged will endeavor to uphold Todd Pletcher's winning tradition. With a surprising performance at Churchill Downs under his belt, Uncaged enters the Belmont Stakes with 20-1 odds, aiming to level the playing field for horse racing powerhouse Todd Pletcher.

Saratoga Showdown

The Belmont Stakes is all set to take place at the beautiful Saratoga Race Course. While the new venue honors tradition by celebrating the longest race in the Triple Crown series, the race's unique circumstances – including the shortened distance caused by starting in a straightaway rather than on a turn – will test the stride and tenacity of each competitor. Rivalries will be cemented, hearts will race, and only one horse will triumph. May the best horse win!