Baffert back from ban, wins Preakness with National Treasure after another horse euthanized

BALTIMORE — Bob Baffert choked back tears and his voice cracked while he tried to juggle the conflicting feelings of seeing one of his horses win the Preakness Stakes hours after another was euthanized on the same track. “To win this — losing that horse today really hurt.. It’s been a very emotional day.” 472568e58f5546a7ad4d4d2d6ba0ada6 National Treasure won the Preakness on Saturday in Baffert’s return to the Triple Crown trail following a suspension, ending Kentucky Derby champion Mage’s Triple Crown bid in the race Baffert has now captured more than any other trainer. National Treasure did not run in the Derby at Churchill Downs, where Baffert has been barred the past two years because of a suspension stemming from 2021 Kentucky Derby winner Medina Spirit’s failed drug test that led to a disqualification in that race. The 5-2 second choice Saturday, National Treasure came through, delivering Baffert a record-breaking eighth victory in the Preakness and his 17th in a Triple Crown race, also the most among trainers. “He put up a really good fight.. That’s what champions do.” National Treasure paid $7.80 to win, $4 to place and $2.60 to show.