Preakness Stakes Odds: Mystik Dan's Chances Soar with Muth's Withdrawal

With Preakness Stakes favorite Muth scratched due to a fever, the field is wide open for Mystik Dan, the Kentucky Derby winner, to extend his Triple Crown hopes.

The Kentucky Derby victor faces a quick turnaround to the Preakness Stakes, just two weeks after an exhausting and exhilarating win. "Mystik Dan is coming off a tough race," said Paul Zilm, a horse racing oddsmaker. "He expended a lot of energy, and he'll have just two weeks' rest."

Zilm notes that Mystik Dan has only raced once on two weeks' rest, winning a short sprint but finishing fifth in a longer race. This short turnaround raises questions about Mystik Dan's ability to perform at his best in the Preakness.

The scratching of Muth, who had beaten Mystik Dan in the Arkansas Derby, significantly increases Mystik Dan's chances. With Muth out, the pace of the race is expected to be slower, potentially benefiting early runners like Mystik Dan.

Bob Baffert, the trainer of Muth, has another strong contender in Imagination, who is now the fourth choice in the Preakness odds. With Muth's absence, Imagination may not face the same pressure early on and could secure a path to the winner's circle.

Catching Freedom, who finished fourth in the Kentucky Derby, and Tuscan Gold, a fresh horse who has shown speed, are also contenders to watch. Tuscan Gold has drawn odds of +450, offering a potentially lucrative payoff for bettors.

The forecast for the Preakness Stakes includes a high probability of rain, which could benefit Mystik Dan, who has proven to run well on wet tracks.

Zilm remains skeptical about Mystik Dan's chances due to the short turnaround, but acknowledges his Derby victory and proven ability in wet conditions. He believes Imagination could emerge as a strong contender if he can establish an early lead.

With Muth withdrawn, the Preakness Stakes field becomes more wide open, offering bettors several intriguing options. Mystik Dan, Imagination, and Tuscan Gold are among the top contenders, while Catching Freedom and other fresh horses could make an impact. The odds are likely to fluctuate as the race approaches.

Mystik Dan's chances of extending his Triple Crown hopes have significantly improved with Muth's withdrawal. However, the quick turnaround and potential for a fast pace remain concerns. Imagination, Tuscan Gold, and Catching Freedom are among the other contenders to watch in what promises to be an exciting Preakness Stakes race.