Journalism Still Undecided for Preakness 2025, Despite Favoritism

As we get closer to Preakness 2025, all eyes are on Journalism. But, there’s still no word on whether the colt will race. After a runner-up effort in the Derby, earning him a rating of 119, it seemed like a sure thing, but the ownership group is taking their time before committing.  

So, what’s holding things up? Let’s break down what’s at stake here. 

The Buzz Building Around Journalism 

Journalism has quickly become one of the hottest names in horse racing. After a strong second-place finish in the 2025 Kentucky Derby, just behind Sovereignty, it has earned its spot as a top contender for the Preakness 2025.  

Trained by Michael McCarthy and owned by Eclipse Thoroughbred Partners, Journalism has proven its potential with four wins in six starts, including a dominant victory in the Santa Anita Derby. 

What really sets Journalism apart is its pedigree. Sired by Curlin and out of Mopotism, the colt comes from strong bloodlines, further fueling excitement around its future. With Sovereignty opting out, Journalism has emerged as the new favorite for Preakness, currently holding 5-2 odds. 

As more bettors turn to reliable betting platforms like FanDuel.com to access up-to-the-minute odds, betting lines, and prop bets tailored for every type of bettor. With Journalism emerging as an early favorite, punters are locking in wagers in hopes of cashing in before the odds shift. 

However, competition remains fierce. Horses like Rodriguez and Gosger are also in the mix, each showing strong performances in recent races. Still, Journalism’s mix of talent, consistency, and pedigree makes it a standout choice for the upcoming race. 

Why the Preakness Isn’t a Sure Thing for Journalism? 

Despite the growing anticipation, Journalism’s entry into the 2025 Preakness Stakes remains uncertain. Following a commendable second-place finish in the Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2025, the colt has stayed at Churchill Downs, continuing its recovery under the watchful eye of trainer Michael McCarthy. The team prioritizes the horse’s well-being, emphasizing that no final decision has been made regarding its participation in the upcoming race.  

Trainer McCarthy has indicated that the decision will be based on how Journalism recovers in the coming days. He mentioned, “We’ll give him a day or two to get his feet underneath him and see where we’re at.” This cautious approach underscores the team’s commitment to the horse’s health and long-term career. 

The two-week gap between the Kentucky Derby and the Preakness Stakes has been a topic of debate in the racing community. Some industry figures have suggested that the compressed schedule may contribute to fatigue and increased risk of injury, influencing decisions like Journalism’s current status.  

Journalism is among the potential contenders for the Preakness, with its final participation contingent upon its recovery and the team’s assessment in the coming days. The situation remains fluid, and fans and bettors are awaiting further updates. 

Betting in Limbo as Journalism Decides 

The uncertainty surrounding Journalism’s participation in the 2025 Preakness Stakes significantly impacts the betting scene. Before the Kentucky Derby, Journalism was listed as one of the favorites in the Preakness futures market, holding competitive odds. After its strong second-place finish in the Derby, Journalism’s status as a top contender for the Preakness has only gained traction. 

As of now, Journalism is one of the leading names in the Preakness field, with betting markets reflecting its high profile. The colt’s performance in the Derby solidified its place as one of the most talked-about horses in the race, and its odds have remained in the mix among top favorites. 

This creates both opportunities and risks for bettors. The shifting nature of Journalism’s status means that those planning to bet on Preakness Stakes must stay informed. As more details unfold, the betting dynamics will become clearer, and timing your bets right will be key. 

Taking the Long View with Journalism 

The decision about whether Journalism will race in the Preakness is more about looking at the bigger picture. The team behind the colt isn’t rushing into anything.  

They’re focused on ensuring Journalism is in the best shape possible for the long haul, not just a single race. It’s a smart move. Horse racing can burn out even the most promising colts if pushed too hard or too fast. 

This slower, thoughtful strategy sets Journalism up for long-term success, and fans should definitely appreciate it. This is a horse with real potential, but it’s not about rushing for quick glory. The focus is on ensuring that Journalism is ready for bigger challenges, whether in the Preakness or the races that come after. 

Sure, it might seem like a slow play, but it could lead to long-term success. Not every race is about winning today. Sometimes it’s about building something that can last for years. 

Final Thoughts  

It’s refreshing to see the team behind Journalism take the time to assess its readiness instead of jumping into a high-stakes race for the sake of it. There’s a lot of potential here, and a cautious approach now could set the stage for even greater achievements down the road. Whether it races in Preakness 2025 or not, Journalism’s future in racing looks very promising, and that’s what matters most.