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Travers Stakes Betting Preview

August 26, 2023



The 2023 Travers Stakes (G1) is set to unfold this Saturday at the iconic Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, New York. The best thoroughbreds will be in action for an event you cannot afford to miss.


  • Date / Track: 08/26/2023 Saratoga Race Course

  • Post Time: 6:11 PM ET

  • Distance: 1 ¼ m (Dirt)

  • Purse: $1,250,000

Travers Stakes Betting Preview

This prestigious event spans 1 1/4 miles and is a cornerstone of the racing season, which celebrates its 154th edition as the renowned Midsummer Derby. As tradition is holding up, the Travers Stakes consistently lures an impressive field of contenders, and this year is no exception, with the participation of all three Triple Crown race champions from this season. There are seven horses competing in this event, with many of them making a strong case to win.

This event also has some other noteworthy news circulating. Jockey Flavien Pratt is taking the place of Luis Saez, who recently was thrown from Burning Bright during a cardiac issue that would later be fatal to the horse. Saez was hospitalized for his injuries with a dislocated collar bone and wrist fracture.

Horses with Best Chance to Win

Among the pool of potential contenders, these choices shine as formidable candidates with the potential for triumph in the imminent 2023 Travers Stakes. Even if not securing the top spot, it might be prudent to include a couple of these selections in your exactas or trifectas.

Arcangelo 5/2

Arcangelo is returning to action after a victory at the Belmont Stakes. Over his past four starts, he has won three victories and is arguably one horse that can place within the top three or better.

Mage 4/1

Mage is coming off of a second place finish at the Haskell Stakes. Out of six starts, he has accumulated two victories and two runner-ups. Pratt will be the jockey, who has two third-place finishes with other horses here in the past.

Scotland 12/1

Scotland is intriguing since he has three victories out of his last four starts. His most recent race was a win at Curlin in Saratoga last month.. This would be a great long shot option.

Odds, Series Trends and Free Pick

The following odds from MyBookie reveal some betting favorites of horses for the 2023 Travers Stakes.


  • Forte: 7/5

  • Arcangelo: 5/2

  • Mage: 4/1

  • National Treasure: 8/1

  • Scotland: 12/1

Forte 7/5

Over Forte’s career, he has won seven out of nine racing events he has entered. In this year alone, he has three out of four victories and one being a second place finish. He is coming off of a victory at the Jim Dandy in Saratoga last month.

Final Pick: Take Forte 7/5 to Win

Written By: Andrew Leatherbury