Preakness Stakes 2025: Can Journalism Claim Redemption at Pimlico Without Sovereignty in the Field?
Horse racing fans, buckle up—the second leg of the Triple Crown is here. This Saturday, the 150th edition of the Preakness Stakes storms into Pimlico Race Course, offering another shot at glory after a thrilling Kentucky Derby. While the spotlight was expected to remain on Derby winner Sovereignty, a foot injury has sidelined the standout colt, opening the gates wide for redemption—and Journalism is ready to seize it.
Journalism’s Redemption Arc
Journalism has been grand since the @KentuckyDerby and @mwmracing has green-lighted him to head to @PimlicoRC for the 150th @PreaknessStakes! We look forward to showcasing Journalism’s talents in Baltimore in such a coveted American Classic w @umbyrispoli set to ride #BelieveBig pic.twitter.com/46glTeh0gF
— Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners (@EclipseTBP) May 11, 2025
Trained by Michael McCarthy and co-owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Journalism entered the Derby as the favorite, only to fall short and finish second behind Sovereignty. But with the top rival out of contention, the path to victory now looks more attainable. A recent video shared by Eclipse showed Journalism in fine form during a workout, with jockey Umberto Rispoli at the reins and confidence flowing through the team.
Now pegged at 6-5 odds, Journalism is again one of the clear favorites. Weather conditions are expected to be more favorable than those on Derby day, potentially tipping the scales in McCarthy’s favor this time. And if the colt crosses the line first, it could cash in on a massive payday—possibly exceeding last year’s $1.2 million winner’s share from the $2 million purse.
The Competition: Who Can Stop Journalism?
Despite Sovereignty’s absence, Journalism will not cruise unchallenged. Among the notable contenders:
Pay Billy: Trained by Michael Gorham, this colt recently won the Federico Tesio Stakes and has been sharpening with maturity. His steady development and career earnings of $234,475 signal a strong threat.
Clever Again: With legendary bloodlines—his sire being Triple Crown winner American Pharoah—this promising colt boasts a 2-1-0 record in three starts, including a win in March’s $200,000 Hot Springs Stakes.
Sandman: A seventh-place finisher in the Derby, Sandman returns with renewed energy and a race setup that could work to his advantage. Trainer Mark Casse, already a Preakness winner, believes his colt is primed.
Gosger: With Luis Saez, a two-time Belmont-winning jockey, aboard, Gosger enters fresh off a win in the Lexington Stakes. Don’t count him out in the closing stretch.
A High-Stakes Showdown
With Sovereignty out, Journalism holds a golden opportunity—but underdog narratives are woven into Triple Crown lore. Whether Journalism silences doubts or another contender writes a new chapter remains to be seen. One thing’s for sure: the 150th Preakness Stakes promises another unforgettable run for the roses… or in this case, Black-Eyed Susans.