The first time Roadhog ran in the Maryland Million Turf, in 2011, said his trainer Lizzie Merryman, nobody really expected him to win.

And he didn’t, finishing seventh, though as the narrow second choice, he had obviously garnered the support of a large segment of the wagering public.

But on Saturday, when Roadhog goes to the post for the fourth time in the race, as the two-time defending winner, expectations might be a little different.

“The pressure’s on,” said Merryman this week. “A little bit.”

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Photo: Roadhog rallies to win his second Maryland Million Turf in 2013, Kendrick Carmouche up. Jim McCue/Maryland Jockey Club.