Handicapper Tips & Picks

Grade 1 Preakness Stakes

This was truly a tough race to figure out. But someone will win. Because this race if filled with front-end speed, I decided to select…a front runner. 1-TAJ MAHAL (beautiful place, great musician) will need some luck breaking from the rail. But he is very fast, he’s gotten better with every race, and he’s a perfect three for three at Laurel, possibly giving him the home-field advantage. Of course, just one of his rivals coming over on him early could obliterate his chances. All eyes will be on 2-OCELLI after his terrific effort in the Kentucky Derby. He appeared to have dead aim on the lead late but was just a little empty when it counted. This race is a sixteenth shorter which could help but he is still a maiden for a reason. He’s exciting to watch with his late run but he keeps coming up short. 12-INCREDIBOLT should appreciate the fast pace ahead of him. Had a credible effort in the Derby despite being one of the many that got bumped around. Like the fact that he’s one of the few in here that finishes with good energy. Can wear them down late.