The morning-line favorite of one of the races leading up to the 141st Preakness Stakes has dropped out.
Stanford was the 8-5 morning-line favorite for the Sagamore Spirit Pimlico Special. His trainers decided not to make the trip from New York for a chance at winning the $300,000 top prize.
"We've decided to wait for the Met Mile," trainer Todd Pletcher said in a text message.
He went on to say the main focus for Stanford was the Metropolitan Handicap June 11. Pletcher was debating whether or not to give the stallion another tune-up before the event after winning the Charles Town Classic April 23.
With Stanford out of the running, Page McKenney emerges as the new favorite. Page McKenney was on a four-race winning streak until he was beat by Stanford at the Charles Town Classic.