The 2025 Preakness Stakes: A Bettor’s Guide to Strategy, Apps, and Excitement

Horse racing enthusiasts and bettors alike eagerly anticipate the 2025 Preakness Stakes, the thrilling second jewel of the Triple Crown. Set for Saturday, May 17, 2025, at Pimlico Race Course in Baltimore, this race offers a unique challenge with its 1 3/16-mile distance, shorter than both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes. With a $2 million purse and a full day of racing action, the Preakness is a must-watch—and a prime opportunity for strategic betting.

Understanding the Preakness Stakes

The Preakness Stakes isn’t just another horse race—it’s a pivotal moment in the Triple Crown series. While the Kentucky Derby tests endurance and the Belmont Stakes pushes stamina, the Preakness is all about speed and tactical racing. The shorter distance means horses must balance early bursts of energy with enough stamina to hold off late challengers.
This year’s race features top contenders like Journalism and Rodriguez, both coming off strong performances in the Derby. Analysts are already debating whether either has what it takes to dominate at Pimlico.

Legal Betting Options for the Preakness

Unlike mainstream sports betting, wagering on horse racing operates under different regulations in the U.S. General sportsbooks like DraftKings or BetMGM won’t offer Preakness betting—instead, you’ll need specialized horse racing apps. The two most trusted platforms are:

1. TwinSpires: Best for Bonus Offers

– Promotion: New users get up to $400 in bonus credits, win or lose.
– Why It’s Great: TwinSpires is a powerhouse in horse racing, offering expert insights, live streaming, and a user-friendly interface.

2. FanDuel Racing: Best for Risk-Free Betting

– Promotion: A $500 no-sweat first bet—if your bet loses, you get your stake back.
– Why It’s Great: FanDuel’s sleek design and integration with its sportsbook make it a favorite for casual bettors.

Betting Strategies for the 2025 Preakness

Expert Picks & Handicapping

Before placing a bet, study past performances, jockey tactics, and track conditions. Analysts often highlight:
– Speed Figures: Which horses have the fastest recent times?
– Post Position: Inside posts (1-4) can be advantageous at Pimlico.
– Late Movers vs. Front-Runners: Will the pace favor closers like Rodriguez, or will a speedster like Journalism dominate early?

Types of Bets to Consider

– Win/Place/Show: Simple bets on a horse to finish 1st, 2nd, or 3rd.
– Exacta/Trifecta: Predicting the top two or three finishers in order (higher risk, bigger payouts).
– Superfecta: Nailing the top four—difficult but potentially lucrative.

Bankroll Management

– Set a budget and stick to it.
– Avoid chasing losses—stick to value bets with strong odds.
– Consider hedging bets if you have multiple strong contenders.

How to Place Your Bets: A Step-by-Step Guide

Final Thoughts: Making the Most of the Preakness

The 2025 Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be a high-stakes, action-packed event. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a newcomer, the right strategy—paired with the best betting apps—can turn this race into a thrilling (and potentially profitable) experience.
So, study the field, claim your bonuses, and place your bets wisely. The second leg of the Triple Crown is not just about watching greatness—it’s about being part of it.
Who will you back at Pimlico? 🏇