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Justify sets off for Baltimore ahead of Preakness Stakes

The undefeated 2-year-old comes to the Baltimore race as the favorite.
Credit: Michael Reaves/Getty Images
Justify trains on the track during morning workouts in preparation for the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs on May 3, 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky.

LOUISVILLE (WHAS11) – Justify, the winner of the 144th Kentucky Derby, is headed to Pimlico to get ready to run for a chance at the triple crown.

The Derby champ left Wednesday morning for Baltimore ahead of this weekend's Preakness Stakes.

The undefeated 2-year-old colt comes into the race as the favorite.

RELATED: Justify, 144th Kentucky Derby winner, gallops after nursing bruised heel

Trainer Bob Baffert said he's wanted to let Justify develop at his own pace. To do so, he's had very specific instructions for jockey Mike Smith.

"Don't you dare let that horse run. Just go easy, don't win by a lot. And here I’m telling the guy win it…just don't win it by a lot,” Baffert said.

RELATED: Preakness States field taking shape with Justify, Good Magic set to race

Baffert said he used to tell jockey Victor Espinoza the same thing with Triple Crown Winner American Pharaoh.

He said it saves the horse.

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