BALTIMORE — California Chrome has run away from the competition in five consecutive victories, winning by an average of over five lengths.

The Kentucky Derby winner has had it his way ever since Victor Espinoza climbed aboard back in December when the streak began. Whether they do again in the 1 3/16-mile Preakness at Pimlico on Saturday depends on a good trip, the tactics used by the chestnut colt’s nine rivals and a little luck. California Chrome is the even-money favorite against nine rivals.

“When you run a 3-5 shot, you’ve got a lot more pressure on you knowing you’re going to be the favorite, but I think we can handle it,” trainer Art Sherman said.

California Chrome galloped two miles in the rain Friday. A small blister in the colt’s throat that caused him to cough a day earlier was blown out of proportion, according to Alan Sherman, Art’s son and assistant trainer.

“California Chrome is fine. His throat is fine. He had a little tickle,” he said. “He is not scratching from the Preakness.”

The colt had a similar blister before his Derby win. He was being treated with a glycerin throat wash. If the chestnut colt with four white feet can repeat his Derby success in the $1.5 million Preakness, he’ll set himself up for a Triple Crown try in three weeks in the Belmont Stakes.