The 151st running of the Preakness Stakes is almost here, and this year comes with a major twist. For the first time in history, the race moves from historic Pimlico Race Course to Laurel Park in Laurel, Maryland, on Saturday, May 16. The change in venue isn't the only headline—Golden Tempo, this year's Kentucky Derby winner, will skip the Preakness, making him the third Derby champion in five years to take a pass on the second jewel of the Triple Crown.

With Golden Tempo out, the field is wide open. Early odds have Crude Velocity leading the pack at 4-1, but don't let the favorite fool you. Just behind him, a cluster of contenders like Iron Honor (19-1), Taj Mahal (20-1), and Cherokee Nation (22-1) are ready to make noise. That kind of pricing screams opportunity for bettors who know where to look.

Enter Jody Demling, a horse racing expert who has been cashing tickets for years. Demling has called 11 of the last 21 Preakness winners, including a perfect hit in 2023 when he nailed the winner, exacta, trifecta, and superfecta. He followed that up by hitting the trifecta in 2024 and correctly picking Journalism as the 2025 Preakness winner. If you've been following his picks, you know the kind of edge he brings to the table.

For 2026, Demling is sharing his full betting card at SportsLine, and one name stands out: Taj Mahal at 20-1. This undefeated colt has run every race of his career at Laurel Park, giving him a home-track advantage few others can claim. He's already proven he can handle both fast and muddy tracks, winning the Federico Tesio Stakes and the Miracle Wood Stakes in recent months. Trained by Brittney Russell and sired by Derby winner Nyquis, Taj Mahal has the pedigree and the form to spring a major upset.

Whether you're looking for a longshot to spice up your bets or want to see Demling's full analysis, this year's Preakness promises drama from start to finish. Get your picks ready and enjoy the race from a new home at Laurel Park.