One thing we have learned from our years of covering the Kentucky Derby is the only predictable thing is unpredictability. When asked who among the 20 runners are the entrants that have a “real” chance to win, the answer is simple…ALL of them. Rich Strike’s amazing run two years ago at odds of 80-1 was recent proof positive that ANY horse in the starting gates can win. With that in mind, let’s take a look at the field with post position, morning line odds, and give a thought on each…Back a horse and get paid!!!
1 Dornoch (20-1) Not a good post position for a runner that likes to be near or on the lead
2 Sierra Leone (3-1) Bluegrass Stakes and Risen Star Stakes winner is a deep closer
3 Mystik Dan (20-1) Versatile son of Goldencents is our top pick as a big longshot
4 Catching Freedom (8-1) Louisiana Derby winner is a closer with potential here
5 Catalytic (30-1) Florida Derby runner up is facing a very tall task in this one
6 Just Steel (20-1) Son of Justify looks like a live longshot for trainer D Wayne Lukas
7 Honor Marie (20-1) Louisiana Derby runner up has two wins at Churchill to his credit
8 Just a Touch (10-1) Lightly raced Brad Cox trainee might be part of a hot pace
10 T O Password (30-1) Japanese import that has 2 wins in 2 career starts
11 Forever Young (10-1) Japanese buzz horse that is well traveled and unbeaten in 5 starts
12 Track Phantom (20-1) Should be out front early but the distance is a bit much
13 West Saratoga (50-1)-Hard knocker that could be in the money at a huge price
14 Endlessly (20-1) Never started on dirt but has won 5 of 6 lifetime- a real player
15 Domestic Product (30-1) Tampa Derby winner has not raced since March 9
16 Grand Mo The First (50-1) Winless this year but with enough points to make it
17 Fierceness (5-2) Deserving favorite and has the goods to get it done
18 Stronghold (20-1) Santa Anita Derby winner is tactical and looks to be very live here
19 Resilience (20-1) Wood Memorial winner has a challenging post draw
20 Society Man (50-1) Wood runner-up did just enough to get here
21 Epic Ride (30-1) Been in the money in all 5 career starts and was 3rd
