One surprise: Demling is fading Rodriguez (12-1), who does not hit the board in his 2025 Kentucky Derby projections. The Bob Baffert-trained horse showcased his potential with a comfortable win the Wood Memorial (G2), posting a 101 Beyer Speed Figure. However, he struggled in races when he was unable to take the early lead.

While the horses are always the stars of the Kentucky Derby, the trainers are often the stars of race week. Hall of Famer Bob Baffert, who has helped produce six Derby winners—most recently, Authentic in 2020—is back following a three-year suspension for Medina Spirit’s failed drug tests.

Another busy weekend in horse racing saw the Kentucky Derby field set, as well as one shocker and one not in Hong Kong.