Preakness Stakes Contender Profile: Clever Again
Preakness Stakes Contender Profile
Clever Again: Asmussen’s Sleeper Pick for the 2025 Preakness Stakes
With the 2025 Preakness Stakes quickly approaching, one under-the-radar colt is gaining traction in the betting world. Clever Again, trained by Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen, enters the second leg of the Triple Crown as a fast-improving contender.
If you’re planning to bet on Preakness longshots, this is one name to remember. His recent performances are starting to shift Preakness Stakes odds in his favor, especially after several key defections from the race.
Preakness Stakes betting fans should take note of Clever Again’s impressive two-race win streak. His combination of natural speed, a calm demeanor, and growing confidence makes him one of the more intriguing entries in a wide-open 2025 field.
Rising Star with Back-to-Back Wins
Clever Again has only three career starts but already has two victories and a runner-up finish to his name. He debuted at Keeneland last year, finishing just a head behind the winner in a 4 ½ furlong dash. Since turning three, he’s stepped up dramatically, winning a Maiden Special Weight and then capturing the Hot Springs Stakes at Oaklawn Park.
His maiden win came in February, where he led from gate to wire over 1 1/16 miles and crossed the finish line 3¼ lengths ahead. A month later, he followed that effort with a dominant four-length victory in the Hot Springs Stakes on March 30, showing his front-running power once again.
Trained for Greatness
Trainer Steve Asmussen knows what it takes to win the Preakness. He has two victories in the race, with Curlin in 2007 and Rachel Alexandra in 2009. In recent years, he’s continued to be a strong contender, finishing second with Epicenter in 2022 and Midnight Bourbon in 2021, and third with Tenfold in 2018. Asmussen believes Clever Again is ready for the challenge, calling him “physically capable” and praising his athleticism and calm nature.
Jockey Experience Matters
Clever Again will be ridden by Jose Ortiz, a seasoned jockey with proven success on big stages. Ortiz previously won the Preakness in 2022 aboard Early Voting and will be looking to add a second victory to his resume. This will be his sixth time riding in the race, and his familiarity with Pimlico’s unique setup could give Clever Again an edge.
A Strong Pedigree
His pedigree reflects top-tier racing potential from both sides. He’s the son of American Pharoah, the 2015 Triple Crown winner known for his speed and versatility. Although many of American Pharoah’s offspring have found success on turf, Clever Again has proven effective on dirt, just like his famous sire.
His dam, Flattering, was sired by Galileo, one of the most accomplished European champions in racing history. In 2001, Galileo captured three major titles: the Epsom Derby, Irish Derby, and King George VI & Queen Elizabeth Stakes. This mix of dirt and turf excellence gives Clever Again a deep genetic toolbox, with both stamina and acceleration.
Live Longshot Potential
After closing at 15-1 in the Preakness Future Pool, his odds have since shortened. With several contenders like Sovereignty, Baeza dropping out, he may no longer be available at double-digit prices come post time. He’s been training sharply, most recently recording a five-furlong breeze in 1:01.60 at Churchill Downs on May 6.
Asmussen’s colt heads into the Preakness as a live longshot with a front-running style that often performs well at Pimlico. He’s improving at the right time and seems to have the mental and physical tools to challenge the favorites on May 17.
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