Why He Could Win

• Jesus’ Team (30-1) – Grupo Seven C Stable/Jose D’Angelo/Jevian Toledo
• Race record: 10: 2-3-2, earnings of $146,640

Improving sort enters off back-to-back career best efforts when second behind Pneumatic and then third, behind Mystic Guide and Liveyourbeastlife, in the G2 Jim Dandy…

Tactical sort will tuck in behind major speed players and look to mow them down late…

Has been a much-improved runner since placed with trainer Jose D’Angelo following his maiden score (against claiming horses) in March…

Owner liked what he was seeing enough to supplement into the Preakness — a big swing — and the runner has a slight familiarity edge, as he was the first runner to arrive at Old Hilltop…

Why He Could Lose

Despite his improving efforts, the son of Tapiture is still eligible for a first-level allowance; both his victories have come in claiming company…

Must figure out a way to beat four horses that have previously beaten him, one of whom, Liveyourbeastlife, is also 30-1 on the morning line…

Beyer figs top out at 95 to date, well below best efforts of some rivals…

First time on the horse, and first Preakness ride, for local pilot Toledo, as well as first Preakness starter for trainer…

Would be a considerable surprise were he to win or even really contend…

What They’re Saying About Him

Jesus’ Team has worked twice since finishing third in the Jim Dandy, which was also his first race with blinkers on. He had a four-furlong move in 47 4/5 seconds at Monmouth Park on September 19 — fourth fastest of 75 at the trip — and then went five furlongs in 1:03 2/5 on September 26.

“He worked four furlongs very well,” D’Angelo said after the September 19 work. “He’s very, very good right now, and the Preakness is a great race for us.”

Of course, despite the good work, his owner still had to decide to commit the dollars to supplement the horse.

“I explained to the owner the races [available] to him and he thinks the best decision was to run in the Preakness,,” D’Angelo said.

Video Past Performances