Upcoming Preakness Stakes 2025: Potential Longshots Set to Claim Victory
With the 150th Preakness Stakes on the horizon, set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, anticipation buzzes. Known as the second jewel of the Triple Crown, the 2025 Preakness promises more thrilling moments and underdog victories that leave spectators stunned.
Let's explore five 15-1 hopefuls ready to turn heads in this legendary race:
1. Pay Billy
Pay Billy bagged his spot with a win in the Federico Tesio Stakes on April 19, 2025. His ability to stay close to the leaders and make a decisive move in the final stretch is impressive. His knack for conserving energy gives him an advantage over horses that may struggle with endurance on the demanding distance.
However, concerns linger about his lack of experience against elite competition. If he can maintain composure and adapt to the faster pace, Pay Billy could steal the show, defying his long odds.
2. River Thames
River Thames impressed with a composed effort in the Florida Derby on March 29, 2025. His ability to maintain a steady pace, even in high-stakes competition, suggests he might thrive under Pimlico's track conditions – especially if early leaders push too hard and tire late. While he remains a longshot, his reliability is intriguing.
3. Gosger Aims
Gosger captivated in the Wood Memorial Stakes on April 5, 2025, where he unleashed a powerful late charge. His explosive closing ability makes him one of the most intriguing closers in the Preakness field. But inconsistency remains his Achilles' heel. If Gosger can position himself correctly before launching his run, he could challenge the favorites.
4. Clever Again
Clever Again has demonstrated impressive speed, most recently after winning the Hot Springs Stakes on March 30, 2025. His ability to shift gears with precision could pay off at Pimlico, given the track layout favors horses with quick acceleration. If timed right, he may have the opportunity to surge past competitors and secure a strong finishing position.
5. Sandman
Sandman clinched his victory in the Arkansas Derby on March 29, 2025, demonstrating his ability to remain composed even under pressure. Though his lack of explosiveness might limit his ability to challenge stronger contenders, his stamina and endurance could come in handy if the pace is too intense early on. Advantageous race conditions could catapult Sandman to a deep closing position and sustain his charge.
Never Challenge the Power of the Underdogs
From Rich Strike's incredible 80-1 victory in the 2022 Kentucky Derby to legendary longshots like Mine That Bird, Charismatic, and Donerail, underdogs have left their mark on racing history. Remember, odds won't dictate the outcome, and sometimes, the overlooked, unheralded horses rewrite the script in favor of the improbable victories.
- Pay Billy's energy conservation strategy could grant him an edge over competitors in the unpredictable 2025 Preakness Stakes, despite his inexperience against elite horses.
- Should early leaders tire on the demanding Pimlico track, the consistent performance of River Thames may render him a surprise contender, defying his long odds.
- Gosger's explosive closing ability in sports events sets him apart among Preakness Stakes hopefuls, but his inconsistency might render his defeat or victory highly unpredictable.
