Preakness 2014: Prediction, Updated Betting Odds And Preview

As the hours tick away before the running of the 139th Preakness Stakes, California Chrome remains the odds-on favorite but betting lines have moved overnight.

Based off odds from Bovada.lv, the Triple Crown-hopeful’s odds have slightly shifted down to 4/7 from 3/5 and the majority of competitors have seen their odds improve, but Saturday’s race at Pimlico is still California Chrome’s to lose.

Seven out of the 10-horse field saw their odds improve, with Ring Weekend and Pablo Del Monte rising the most from 28/1 to 20/1. From the No. 2 post General A Rod went from 20/1 to 15/1, while Ride On Curlin began Friday at 14/1 only to move to 10/1, and Dynamic Impact from 16/1 to 12/1.

Out of the No. 7 spot, Kid Cruz was seen as a solid upset pick after claiming back-to-back stakes wins at Pimlico and Laurel Park and bettors clearly jumped on his Friday odds of 14/1, and now they’ve gone to 20/1.

The biggest threats to California Chrome remain Social Inclusion at 5/1 and Bayern at 10/1. Sired by Pioneer of the Nile, Social Inclusion claimed two victories at Gulfstream Park, but his low career total of six races could be a blessing or a curse. He could fold during the Preakness due to a lack of experience or breakaway down the stretch with his stored up energy.

Bayern on his first two career starts, both at Santa Anita, and like Social Inclusion he has only six career starts. His third-place finish at the Arkansas Derby could also be a plus.

Updated Betting Odds With Post Positions via Bovada.lv

No. 1 Dynamic Impact 12/1

No. 2 General A Rod 15/1

No. 3 California Chrome 3/5

No. 4 Ring Weekend 20/1

No. 5 Bayern 10/1

No. 6 Ria Antonia 30/1

No. 7 Kid Cruz 20/1

No. 8 Social Inclusion 5/1

No. 9 Pablo Del Monte 20/1

No. 10 Ride On Curlin 10/1

Post Time: Official post time is 6:18 p.m. EST

Prediction: Kid Cruz pulls away on the final turn. Then California Chrome and Bayern.