In a surprising turn of events, Muth, the highly anticipated colt trained by Bob Baffert, has been scratched from the 149th running of the Preakness Stakes. The decision was made after the horse developed a fever on Tuesday evening, prompting Baffert to prioritize the well-being of his equine contender.

Trainer Bob Baffert expressed his disappointment in a statement, saying, "We are sick about this. The horse had been doing really well. But we have to do what's right by the horse." The fever came as a setback for Muth, who had just arrived at the Pimlico Race Course from his training base in Southern California.

The 149th running of the Preakness Stakes, scheduled for Saturday, will now proceed without Muth as a morning-line favorite. Baffert's decision to withdraw the colt emphasizes the significance of prioritizing the health and safety of the horses above all else.

Muth's sudden withdrawal has left fans and race enthusiasts disappointed, as they had eagerly anticipated the colt's performance in this prestigious event. Baffert's track record as a controversial yet successful Hall-of-Fame trainer had only added to the excitement surrounding Muth's participation.

The exact cause of Muth's fever is yet to be determined, with further medical evaluation likely to take place in order to ascertain the underlying reasons for this unexpected turn of events. Despite the setback, Baffert's commitment to the welfare of his horses demonstrates that even the most favored contenders are not exempt from decisions made in their best interests.

Saturday's Preakness Stakes will witness a revised lineup of horses, as trainers and jockeys gear up for what promises to be a thrilling race. While Muth's absence will undoubtedly be felt, the remaining participants will now have an opportunity to step into the spotlight and seize victory.

Although Muth's journey towards Triple Crown glory has been halted, the focus has now shifted towards ensuring his swift recovery. As the racing community eagerly awaits updates on his condition, the ultimate priority remains providing Muth with the necessary care and attention required for a successful return to the track.