Preakness Stakes 2026: Racing Insider Sheds Light On 2 Biggest Threats to Iron Honor on Saturday

For bettors, that is helpful information, but they want to know the horses with longer odds that could deliver a big return on Win, Place, and Show bets. King suggests quite a few of the Preakness competitors offer upside, especially if they are locally bred in Maryland.

“You are going to have a lot of horses in the 5-1 to 15-1 range where you can make a case for them,” King said. “Some tried-and-true methods, like picking the Derby winner, don’t exist this year. There could also be more of a home track edge since the race is at Laurel Park this year instead of Pimlico.”

Also Read:: 2026 Preakness Stakes Horses: Ranking All 14 Competitors & Prediction For Race Winner

One local competitor, the racing insider believes is a contender for good reason, is the Brittany Russell-trained colt Taj Mahal. However, he does have concerns about how he will be able to handle a more talented field.

“Taj Mahal has been based in Maryland, so he has a ‘home track edge,” says King. “He has shown early speed in previous long-distance races, but he faces a lot of speed in this field and is drawn in the inside post position. I would be surprised if he wins, as it is a big step up from beating Laurel Stakes horses to winning the Preakness.”

When it comes to sleeper picks in this year’s Stakes, a name that King is high on is Todd Fincher-trained colt The Hell We Did.

“I also like a horse named The Hell We Did. He ran a strong second in the Lexington Stakes and has a great pedigree as a half-brother to Saudi Cup winner Senor Buscador,” said King.

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