Why He Could Win

Improving son of Ghostzapper has run the two best races of his career when stretched out to two turns in last two and gets yet more ground in the Preakness…

His focus has been a problem — he seemed to check out of the G2 Jim Dandy at times only to come running late — which suggests another step forward could be in the offing if he can figure out his job…

Followed his good outing in the Jim Dandy up with a good five-furlong work September 17 at Belmont Park, going the trip in 59 4/5 seconds, third-fastest of the day at the distance, and owner decided to supplement him into the big race…

Beyer figs have improved in five straight races…

August 12 allowance win came at odds of 9-2 — the shortest he’s ever been…

Why He Could Lose

Speed figs say he’s not fast enough: his career-best Beyer fig is 94, well below several of these…

Has never won a stake, let alone a Grade 1…

First Preakness runner for trainer Abreu and second for rider McCarthy, whose previous Preakness runner, Bodhisattva, finished eighth in 2015…

What They’re Saying About Him

“He breezed really well today,” said Abreu of the breeze September 17. “He went in 59 and 4 which is something he’s never done before. We’re going to take a shot.”

Liveyourbeastlife subsequently worked six furlongs in 1:16 1/5 September 26.

All in all, the Preakness is quite a spot for a runner who broke his maiden against claiming rivals and then failed to finish in the money in his next four starts.

“He didn’t show much early on but every jockey that rode him never came back with a negative thing about him, they would say, ‘this horse wants to run long,’” said Abreu.

Video Past Performances