The 2026 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be one of the most competitive Triple Crown races in recent memory, and while Kentucky Derby champion Golden Tempo won't be on the track, the field is loaded with talent and intrigue. Taking place on Saturday, May 16, this year's race moves to Laurel Park in Maryland as Pimlico Race Course undergoes renovations—a historic shift that adds an extra layer of excitement to the 151st running.
Five horses enter with odds of 6-1 or shorter, making the morning line a handicapper's dream. Iron Honor leads the pack as the 9-2 favorite, but he's closely followed by Chip Honcho and Taj Mahal, both at 5-1. Ocelli, who surprised everyone with a third-place finish in the Kentucky Derby, sits at 6-1. With such a tight top tier, every stride will matter.
For those looking to get an edge, horse racing expert Jody Demling has been on an incredible run. He correctly predicted the top three finishers in the 2025 Kentucky Derby in exact order, has called 11 of the last 21 Preakness winners, and nailed the 2025 Preakness champion, Journalism. His track record includes hitting the exacta, trifecta, and superfecta in 2023, and the trifecta again in 2024. If you've been following his picks, you know the value he brings.
One of Demling's most surprising calls this year involves Taj Mahal. Despite being tied for the second-lowest odds at 5-1 and boasting a perfect 3-for-3 career record—all at Laurel Park—Demling has him outside his top five projected finishers. The reasoning? Taj Mahal's wins have come against lesser competition, and he hasn't faced the caliber of horses that battled on the Derby trail. Comfort on the track is one thing, but stepping up against elite rivals is another.
Demling's full 2026 Preakness Stakes predictions, including his top picks and betting strategy, are available now. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or just looking to add some excitement to race day, his insights are worth a look before you place your wagers. Get ready for a thrilling afternoon of racing at Laurel Park—this one could come down to the wire.