Preakness Stakes Contender Profile: Gosger
Preakness Stakes Contender Profile
Gosger, The Lexington Winner Ready for Prime Time
The 150th running of the Preakness Stakes is shaping up to be a wide-open contest, and one colt flying under the radar is Gosger. Fresh off his Grade 3 Lexington Stakes upset, he steps into the Triple Crown spotlight with rising confidence and attention from savvy bettors.
Those looking to bet on Preakness value should take notice of Gosger’s upward trend and tactical versatility, which could prove key in a field that rewards speed and precision.
While he remains a longshot on most Preakness Stakes odds boards, Gosger’s steady improvement and pedigree make him a viable play in this year’s Preakness Stakes betting landscape. With just three career starts, he’s lightly raced but shows signs of having much more to offer.
Race History and Recent Form
Gosger owns a career record of two wins and one second-place finish in three outings. He debuted at six furlongs and finished as the runner-up, showing potential from the start. In February, he broke his maiden with a convincing 1½-length win in a one-mile race at Gulfstream Park.
That effort earned him a shot at graded stakes company, and he delivered in the Lexington Stakes (G3). With top jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. aboard for the first time, Gosger sat just off the leaders and surged to a two-length win over Bracket Buster at 1 1/16 miles.
Ortiz, a multiple Eclipse Award winner, has now ridden the colt to his biggest success to date. He’ll return in the irons for the Preakness, seeking his first win in the race after two runner-up finishes, Midnight Bourbon in 2021 and Blazing Sevens in 2023.
Pedigree and Connections
Gosger is bred to excel at classic distances. His sire, Nyquist, captured the 2016 Kentucky Derby and later finished third in that year’s Preakness Stakes. A dominant force early in his career, Nyquist, son of Uncle Mo, opened with eight straight wins and consistently performed well over longer distances.
On the dam’s side, Gosger is out of Gloria S, an unraced daughter of Tapit. While she never ran, her bloodlines are rich. She’s a half-sister to 2012 Kentucky Derby winner I’ll Have Another, and Tapit has sired four Belmont Stakes winners, including Essential Quality and Flightline, the 2022 Horse of the Year. This powerful blend of dirt ability and stamina makes Gosger one of the more interesting pedigree plays in the field.
Brendan Walsh returns to Pimlico for his second Preakness appearance, bringing with him a more polished contender than his previous runner, Multiplier, who finished sixth in 2017.
Preakness Stakes Outlook
With only three starts, Gosger is short on experience but long on promise. His stalking running style fits the Pimlico track well, especially in a race that often rewards horses who can press the pace and make a timely move. He has proven he can handle two turns, and his improving speed figures signal that he may be ready for another step forward.
Looking for value and potential upside? Gosger could be the sleeper that changes the narrative. For updated odds, expert picks, and full coverage of the 2025 Preakness Stakes, visit our racebook and get ready to make your move.
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