Preakness Stakes Expert Picks, Odds and News

While early-season racing focuses on the Kentucky Derby Prep Races, older horses took center stage at Tampa Bay Downs on Feb. 1 as trainer Chad Brown and jockey Flavien Prat dominated the card. The duo secured victories in both graded stakes races, with "Running Bee" setting a track record in the Grade 3 Tampa Bay Stakes and "Saffron Moon" impressing in the Grade 3 Endeavour Stakes.As Kentucky Derby betting heats up, performances like these highlight elite talent beyond the three-year-old division. While Kentucky Derby odds shift with each prep race, these victories cement Brown and Prat as a formidable team across all divisions.

The 2025 Kentucky Derby Prep Races continue this weekend with a crucial stop at Tampa Bay Downs, where the Grade 3 Sam F. Davis Stakes will serve as the final points race before the high-stakes qualifiers begin next week. With Kentucky Derby betting heating up, this race presents an opportunity for three-year-olds to earn points on the Road to the Kentucky Derby and solidify their status as serious contenders.

A stunning trade has just rocked the NBA. The Los Angeles Lakers have agreed with the Dallas Mavericks to acquire the phenomenal Luka Doncic in a three-team trade involving the Utah Jazz. As part of this blockbuster deal, Anthony Davis, Max Christie, and a first-round pick will head to Dallas. The trade also involves  Maxi Kleber and Markieff Morris to the Los Angeles Lakers.

The early months of the racing season are often centered on Kentucky Derby Prep Races, but older horses are making the headlines at Santa Anita Park. On Feb. 1, Kopion delivered a commanding victory in the Grade 2 Santa Monica Stakes, proving she belongs among the top female sprinters in the country. As Kentucky Derby betting heats up, races like the Santa Monica provide insight into the talent emerging in other divisions. While Kentucky Derby odds continue to shift, Kopion’s growing resume makes her one of the most exciting older fillies in training.

The Road to the Kentucky Derby gained another contender on Feb. 1 as Captain Cook delivered a strong performance in the Grade 3 Withers Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack. The 1 1/8-mile contest, one of the key Kentucky Derby Prep Races, awarded 20 qualifying points to the winner, boosting Captain Cook’s standing on the Derby trail. While Kentucky Derby betting remains focused on early frontrunners, this victory puts Captain Cook firmly in the conversation. With Kentucky Derby odds constantly shifting, his next start in the Wood Memorial Stakes (G2) will determine his place in the Derby picture.