2022 Preakness Stakes Odds, Picks, Betting Analysis: Epicenter
If not for an incredible late surge down the stretch by massive longshot Rich Strike in the Kentucky Derby, Epicenter would be looking to secure the second leg of the Triple Crown.
Epicenter wound up as the runner-up. And with Derby winner Rich Strike sitting out, Epicenter enters the weekend as the favorite to win the Preakness Stakes.
After coming up short at Churchill Downs, can Epicenter get the job done at Pimlico?
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Epicenter Betting Information
Owner: Winchell Thoroughbreds
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Jockey: Joel Rosario
Past results: Four victories in seven starts
Post position: 8th
Rosario and Epicenter will reunite after a really strong effort in Louisville. And there’s no doubting Epicenter’s experience in stakes races, having won the Louisiana Derby and the Risen Star earlier this year. The primary question will be whether Epicenter can deliver another great performance on a swift, two-week turnaround. Horses coming to the Preakness off the Kentucky Derby tend to have an advantage, but there’s definitely concerns regarding Epicenter’s stamina after running such a hard race at the Derby.
Betting Preview and Prediction: Epicenter has to be a fixture on your exacta and trifecta bet in nine-horse fields. He has the speed and pedigree, and he has the jockey and trainer. He has a fine post position. And he has history on his side given how well Kentucky Derby entrants have performed at the Preakness. Only five horses in the last 40 years have won the Preakness after skipping the Kentucky Derby.
However, at 6-5 odds the value isn’t overly appealing right now even with such a small field. There are five horses participating in the Preakness after racing on Derby weekend: Simplification, Happy Jack (both Derby participants), Kentucky Oaks winner Secret Oath and Creative Minister, who won in impressive fashion in an allowance race on the Derby undercard.
Epicenter is rightfully the favorite, but I’d prefer better odds on him to win outright. And like other sports, Epicenter could be due for some regression. For now, throw him in all of your exotics and hope weekend action gives him more value on race day.
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