Expert Preakness Stakes at Laurel Park Picks from DRF

Key Points:

• The 2026 Preakness Stakes will take place on May 16 at Laurel Park, featuring a competitive and wide-open field with multiple contenders and longshot possibilities.
• Mike Welsch highlights NAPOLEON SOLO as a top contender due to impressive recent workouts and previous Grade 1 success, while also noting INCREDIBOLT, BULL BY THE HORNS, and OCELLI as key players.
• David Aragona favors TAJ MAHAL despite his unproven class level, citing his strong recent performance and stamina, alongside INCREDIBOLT and NAPOLEON SOLO as significant threats.
• Mike Beer points to THE HELL WE DID as a promising longshot with improving form and pedigree, alongside established contenders NAPOLEON SOLO, IRON HONOR, and INCREDIBOLT, emphasizing the potential for a less experienced horse to win.
• Overall, the experts agree on INCREDIBOLT and NAPOLEON SOLO as leading contenders, with several others offering value for bettors seeking underdogs in this year's Preakness Stakes.