Horse racing fans are buzzing with excitement as the 2025 Kentucky Derby nears. Saturday’s key prep races delivered vital insights. For example, the Santa Anita Derby, Wood Memorial, and Arkansas Derby showcased this year’s top contenders. In fact, Journalism, Rodriguez, and Sandman emerged as frontrunners for the Run for the Roses. The “Greatest Two Minutes in Sports” at Churchill Downs is less than a month away. So, whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, here’s what you need to know about the Kentucky Derby 2025 contenders. They’re set to shine on May 3.
Journalism Shines in Santa Anita Derby
Journalism claimed a commanding victory in the Santa Anita Derby. As a result, he’s poised to be the morning-line favorite for the Kentucky Derby. This son of Curlin earned 75 qualifying points with the win. He now has 122.5 points, trailing only Sandman on the leaderboard. Meanwhile, trainer Michael McCarthy’s colt boasts a four-race win streak (4-0-1 in five starts). Additionally, Caesars Sportsbook shortened Journalism to a +350 favorite in Kentucky Derby Future wagering. Check out the buzz on X: Santa Anita Derby Recap.
Frankie Taddeo’s Hot Streak Continues
Frankie Taddeo, FullTime Fantasy’s horse racing guru, cashed big on the 2025 Wood Memorial. He nailed the exacta at 27/1 and the trifecta at 200/1. For instance, Taddeo has picked 7 of the last 13 Kentucky Derby winners. His 2023 success with Mage included a 115-1 exacta and a 982-1 trifecta. Therefore, this Vegas insider is a must-follow for Derby bettors. What’s his next goal? Taddeo aims to crush it again on the first weekend in May.
Bob Baffert’s Shrewd Moves Pay Off
Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert made two smart moves with Rodriguez. First, he shipped the colt from California to Aqueduct. Then, he removed the blinkers. Consequently, Rodriguez triumphed gate-to-wire in the Wood Memorial. This win earned him 100 qualifying points, securing 121.25 total Derby points—third on the leaderboard. The son of Authentic (2-2-1 in five starts) showed a front-running style. Notably, this style has proven successful in recent Derbies. See the replay here: Wood Memorial Highlights.
Top 2025 Kentucky Derby Contenders to Watch
- Sandman: Sandman leads with 129 points after winning the Arkansas Derby. This son of Tapit has improved his Equibase Speed Figures in his last five starts, peaking at 104. However, trainer Mark Casse’s colt has a deep-closing style. This approach might face trouble in traffic. Arkansas Derby Recap.
- Tappan Street: Brad Cox’s colt dazzled in the Florida Derby. He beat Sovereignty with a career-best 96 Equibase Speed Figure. Yet, the son of Into Mischief (2-1-0 in three starts) lacks experience. This could be a hurdle in Louisville.
- Grande: Grande impressed despite a wide trip in the Wood Memorial. He earned 50 points as the runner-up for Mike Repole and Todd Pletcher. Thus, the son of Curlin could be a sleeper if he gets a good draw.
Get Ready for the Run for the Roses
The Kentucky Derby is just weeks away. So, an epic showdown awaits. Dive into the action with trusted insights. Start planning your bets for May 3 at Churchill Downs. Want exclusive tips from experts like Frankie Taddeo? Sign up for a FullTime Fantasy membership today and use promo code DERBY20 to get 20% off your first year!
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