BALTIMORE — Orb is ready for his whirl at history.

If he can defeat eight rivals in the 1 3-16-mile Preakness on Saturday, it would set up a Triple Crown try in the Belmont Stakes in three weeks. Orb is the even-money favorite, and there’s a growing feeling that this 3-year-old bay colt may be special enough to give thoroughbred racing its first Triple Crown champion since Affirmed in 1978.

“We’d sure love to have that opportunity,” a relaxed and confident-sounding McGaughey said. “Probably the racing world would love to see it, too.”