Analysis (by Art Gropper)

Strengths: He won at the 1 3/16-mile Preakness distance in the Holy Bull last time out. His only defeat this year was against Big Brown in the Florida Derby, where he had traffic problems out of the gate. He was slow developing as a 2-year-old, but posted a 97 Beyer Speed Figure in his first start this year, so clearly he has talent and speed.

Weaknesses: That loss to Big Brown in the Florida Derby is hard to get past, although he bounced back to win the Holy Bull. He posted higher Beyer Figures earlier this season. Despite his latest win, he appears better suited for shorter races than the Preakness. Certainly, he has his work cut out for him, trying to turn the tables on the very impressive Kentucky Derby winner.

Strategy: He wants to be on or near the lead, but in the Florida Derby he did not show his usual tactical speed. He has a racing style similar to Big Brown’s. He projects to receive a trip similar to the Derby winner’s. He stalked slow early fractions in the Holy Bull, sitting right off the lead before taking over. His best chance is to outlast the closers for a share.

Value: His double-digit defeat at 10-1 odds against Big Brown in the Florida Derby, followed by his loss to Big Brown in the Kentucky Derby, dims his chances. He ranks many notches below Big Brown. Many of the others in this race have yet to face Big Brown, who will be one of the biggest betting favorites ever in the Preakness. Anyone backing Hey Byrn should not accept less than 20-1 odds.