Open Extended Reactions: Muth Scratched from Preakness, Mystik Dan’s Path Clears

The Preakness Stakes field has undergone a significant shake-up with the withdrawal of Muth, the race’s original favorite. The Bob Baffert-trained colt spiked a fever, forcing the team to scratch him from the second leg of the Triple Crown.

Baffert’s Disappointment

Baffert expressed profound disappointment over Muth’s withdrawal, acknowledging the horse’s impressive form. However, he emphasized the well-being of the animal, stating that they had no choice but to remove him from the race.

Mystik Dan’s Enhanced Prospects

Muth’s absence significantly enhances the prospects of Kentucky Derby winner Mystik Dan. The colt, trained by Kenny McPeek, had previously finished third behind Muth in the Arkansas Derby. With his main rival now out of the picture, Mystik Dan and jockey Brian Hernandez Jr. are well-positioned to seize the Preakness.

Baffert’s Resemblance

Despite Muth’s withdrawal, Baffert is still expected to saddle Imagination in the Preakness. The Hall of Famer has won the race a record eight times, and Imagination is considered a strong contender. However, the focus will undoubtedly shift towards Mystik Dan, who now emerges as the favorite.

Track Conditions

With rain in the forecast, the Preakness could be run on a sloppy track. Mystik Dan has already proven to be adept in such conditions, increasing his chances of success. If the track remains wet, he will be a formidable force against the seven remaining horses.

Triple Crown Implications

A victory by Mystik Dan in the Preakness would set the stage for a unique opportunity in the Belmont Stakes. The Triple Crown race will take place at Saratoga Race Course in upstate New York in the next two years while its traditional home on Long Island undergoes reconstruction. This means that Mystik Dan could potentially win the Triple Crown at two historic tracks.

Reactions in the Paddock

News of Muth’s withdrawal spread quickly through the Pimlico paddock. Ray Bryner, Mystik Dan’s assistant trainer, admitted to relief over the change in the field dynamics. “It takes a lot out of the equation,” Bryner said, “We don’t have to worry about him [Muth], so we can kind of run our race and not worry about chasing the horse they call the favorite.”

However, Bryner also expressed sympathy for Baffert and the Muth team. “I’m sure there’s a lot of disappointed people on that end of it,” Bryner said, “With him out of the race, it makes us pretty strong.”

Conclusion

Muth’s withdrawal from the Preakness has reshaped the race’s landscape. Mystik Dan now emerges as the favorite, with his experience on a wet track being a significant advantage. While Baffert’s absence from the paddock may be felt, the Preakness promises to be a thrilling event, with history potentially in the making.