New York Post handicapper Vic Cangialosi handicaps today’s 145th running of the Preakness Stakes at Pimlico Race Course. Post time is approximately 5:45 p.m.

Max Player: Speed kills. Especially at Pimlico. But this deep closer may be able to run this field down if they do the dirty work and wear Authentic down.

Authentic: Then again … the Derby winner held off Tiz the Law and the shorter Preakness will be contested over a speed-favoring surface. The one to beat.

Art Collector: He’s versatile. Can score from on or off the pace. Has won five in a row, including the Blue Grass. May dance with Authentic early, helping Max Players’ chances.