Overview
- The 157th Travers Stakes runs Saturday at Saratoga with a $1.25 million purse and a 10‑horse field headed by Golden Tempo as the 5‑2 morning‑line favorite.
- Golden Tempo missed a scheduled prep after an illness and has been campaigned selectively by trainer Cherie DeVaux, prompting questions about his short‑term readiness.
- Jose Ortiz will ride Golden Tempo from post 9, a mount that reinforces confidence for some bettors even as others pull back.
- Handicappers and betting analysts are dividing over the favorite, with SportsLine’s Gene Menez saying he will pass on Golden Tempo because of the missed prep and recent layoff.
- Contenders getting the most attention include Renegade, The Puma, Baby Vino and Preakness winner Napoleon Solo, and the race’s outcome could affect year‑end honors and Breeders’ Cup positioning.