Journalism Headlines Deep Haskell Field with Breeders' Cup Implications
By: Nick Costa, Trackside with Trackman
Hello, racing fans. When we think of summer hotspots, Saratoga and Del Mar usually steal the spotlight. But come late July, all eyes shift to Monmouth Park on the Jersey Shore for the $1 million Grade 1 Haskell Stakes, our ThoroFan Race of the Week. With its ocean breeze, rich tradition, and a reputation for showcasing three-year-old stars, Monmouth becomes a must-visit summer destination—especially when the Haskell is on the schedule.
This year’s edition is shaping up to be a compelling chapter in the race’s storied history, headlined by Journalism, whose presence brings serious star power to the Haskell field.
The Preakness winner and runner-up in both the Kentucky Derby and Belmont Stakes, Journalism arrives as one of the most accomplished 3-year-olds in the country. In the aforementioned Preakness, he unleashed a powerful late run to run down a gutsy Gosger, who had opened up a clear lead in the stretch and nearly pulled off a major upset. With both colts returning for this year’s Haskell, the rematch adds another layer of intrigue to Monmouth’s signature event.
The Haskell also serves as a “Win and You’re In” race for the Breeders’ Cup Classic on Saturday, November 1st at Del Mar, with the winner earning an automatic berth and all entry fees paid as part of the Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series.
Analysis – 2025 Haskell Stakes
The likely pace scenario sets up with Gosger and Bracket Buster as the primary speed players. Gosger showed front-running strength in the Preakness and figures to go straight to the front again from post 6. Bracket Buster, drawn on the rail, doesn’t have the class edge but may be asked for early speed to avoid getting trapped inside.
One wildcard in the early mix is Wildncrazynight, a local runner with natural early foot who could add some pressure to the front end if he’s sent. His presence adds a layer of uncertainty—if he joins the fray, the early pace could get lively.
Goal Oriented and Kentucky Outlaw should sit just off the leaders, while Journalism and Burnham Square will likely settle midpack and look to launch late. Journalism in particular has shown the ability to rate and finish—ideally suited to capitalize if the leaders soften one another up.
Expect the front end to get contested, tilting things in favor of the stalkers and closers.
Top Selections
1st: Journalism – Classy, tactical, and proven
against the best and suited to a contested pace.
2nd: Burnham Square – The grinding, consistent type who
will benefit from pace pressure up front.
3rd: Goal Oriented – Improving Baffert colt with a good
trip setup behind the speed.
Note: Gosger – Still dangerous, but more likely to
hang on for a piece than hold off everyone.
Haskell Wagering Strategy
$25 Straight Exactas – Total Cost $50
- Journalism (2) over Burnham Square (4) Journalism (2) over Goal Oriented (8)
- $3 Trifecta Part Wheel – $18 Total
- 1st: Journalism (2) 2nd: Burnham Square (4), Goal Oriented (8) 3rd: Burnham Square (4), Goal Oriented (8), Gosger (6), Kentucky Outlaw (7)
- $3 Superfecta Part Wheel – $24 Total
- 1st: Journalism (2) 2nd: Burnham Square (4), Goal Oriented (8) 3rd: Burnham Square (4), Goal Oriented (8), Gosger (6) 4th: Burnham Square (4), Goal Oriented (8), Gosger (6), Kentucky Outlaw (7)
Good luck, and as always, enjoy the race!!