Umberto Rispoli, atop Journalism, during the 150th running of the Preakness Stakes horse race … More
The $1 million Grade 1 NYRA Bets Haskell Stakes takes center stage Saturday at Monmouth Park, and all eyes are on Journalism, the Preakness winner and the only horse in the field to have contested all three legs of the Triple Crown. Installed as the 4-5 morning-line favorite, the son of Curlin looks to add another marquee victory to a growing résumé that already includes Grade 1 wins in the Santa Anita Derby and Preakness.
Trained by Michael McCarthy and ridden by Umberto Rispoli, Journalism enters off a runner-up effort in the Belmont Stakes and boasts a record of 5-2-1 from 8 starts with over $3.1 million in earnings. A bullet six-furlong drill on July 12 suggests he’s sitting on another big one.
Pros: Proven against elite competition, tactical speed, consistent form, elite connections.
Cons: Coming off a demanding Triple Crown campaign; could be vulnerable to fresher horses.
The Challengers
1. Bracket Buster (10-1) – John Velazquez takes the call on this colt who breaks from the rail. He enters under the radar but has been steadily improving.
Pros: Hall of Fame jockey aboard, potential to surprise with ground-saving trip.
Cons: Yet to prove himself at the top level; slower on paper than main rivals.
3. Wildncrazynight (30-1) – Longest shot on the board, he’ll need a significant jump in performance to contend.
Pros: Could benefit from a pace meltdown; local connections know the track.
Cons: Light on class; outmatched on paper.
4. Burnham Square (5-1) – A Grade 1 winner in the Blue Grass Stakes, this Ian Wilkes trainee is known for his adaptability and improving form.
Pros: Versatile running style, Grade 1 winner, consistent training pattern.
Cons: Disappointed in the Derby; still needs to prove he belongs with the very best.
5. National Law (20-1) – Irad Ortiz, Jr. rides this longshot who’s stepping up in class.
Pros: Elite jockey, has shown flashes of talent.
Cons: Lightly raced, untested against top competition, tough post between contenders.
6. Gosger (9-2) – Ran a gutsy second to Journalism in the Preakness and continues to trend upward for trainer Brendan Walsh.
Pros: Improving with every start, nearly upset the Preakness, pedigree suggests further improvement.
Cons: Still inexperienced compared to others; may need a perfect trip to turn the tables.
7. Kentucky Outlaw (15-1) – Trained by a sharp barn, he’s an intriguing wild card with Florent Geroux in the saddle.
Pros: May get overlooked in the wagering, potential to improve off recent efforts.
Cons: Lacks a standout performance; up against proven stakes horses.
8. Goal Oriented (4-1) – Trainer Bob Baffert seeks a record-extending 10th Haskell win with this athletic colt, who was fourth in the Preakness and shows signs of mental and physical maturity.
Pros: Baffert in the Haskell is always dangerous, strong recent works, top jockey Flavien Prat.
Cons: Has yet to put it all together in a top-level race; wide post could be tricky.
The Haskell headlines a 14-race card that features six stakes (five graded) and serves as a “Win and You’re In” qualifier for the $7 million Breeders’ Cup Classic at Del Mar this fall. First post is noon ET, with the Haskell set for 5:45 p.m. and televised live on NBC.
Looking to bet the race? Head to RacingDudes.com for expert picks, pace analysis, and race-day wagering strategies to help you tackle the full Haskell Day card with confidence.
