Value Plays for the 2026 Preakness: Three Longshots Worth a Bet

The Preakness Stakes has a long history of surprises. Since 2000, double-digit longshots have hit the board at an alarming rate in this race. With a wide-open 2026 renewal and no Triple Crown on the line to attract attention to a single horse, now is the time to get creative with your wagers. Here are three horses worth considering beyond the obvious favorites.

1. Napoleon Solo (Post 10 | 8-1)

Jockey: Paco Lopez | Trainer: Chad Summers

At 8-1, Napoleon Solo represents the best middle-ground value in the field. He's not short enough to be a "chalk" bet, but he's respected enough by the oddsmakers to have a legitimate chance. Paco Lopez is a proven winner in big spots, and Chad Summers has been quietly putting together a strong string of horses in 2026.

Napoleon Solo's running style — a patient stalker who can uncork a strong late kick — is tailor-made for a pace-honest Preakness. If the early speed horses burn each other up on the front end, he'll be swooping in just in time.

Best Bet: Win ticket and include in exactas underneath the favorites.

2. Ocelli (Post 2 | 6-1)

Jockey: Tyler Gaffalione | Trainer: Whit Beckman

Ocelli already ran in the Kentucky Derby and came back. That experience alone is worth at least a half-point in class. Having already faced the enormous pressure of Churchill Downs on the first Saturday in May, Ocelli's connections clearly believe there is plenty more to come from this colt.

At 6-1, he's not a screaming longshot — but he's being overlooked relative to his actual chances. Tyler Gaffalione is an elite jockey who has been red-hot throughout 2026, and post 2 gives him the ability to save ground on the rail and be in a perfect striking position.

Best Bet: Include in exactas and trifectas in all combinations with the favorites.

3. The Hell We Did (Post 7 | 15-1)

Jockey: Luis Saez | Trainer: Todd Fincher

At 15-1, this is your lottery ticket — and a well-reasoned one at that. Luis Saez is one of the most explosive big-race riders in North America, having won major Grade I events throughout his career. Post 7 is a good outside draw, giving him the freedom to find a comfortable position without getting trapped on the rail.

Todd Fincher is a respected Texas-based conditioner whose horses tend to improve sharply off layoffs and route attempts. If The Hell We Did fires a career-best performance, the price will look ridiculous in hindsight.

Best Bet: Small win ticket; use in trifecta and superfecta combinations as the key longshot.

Betting Strategy Summary

| Horse | Odds | Recommended Play | |-------|------|------------------| | Napoleon Solo | 8-1 | Win + Exactas | | Ocelli | 6-1 | Exactas / Trifectas | | The Hell We Did | 15-1 | Trifecta / Superfecta |

The Preakness is always one of the most bettable races of the year. Use these value plays to build multi-race exotic tickets that can pay out big. And don't forget to check Track Tipster's premium picks for our official selections!