The world of horse racing is buzzing with anticipation for the Kentucky Derby 2025. While punters cannot place proposition bets on trainers, the excitement surrounding Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert's potential success remains high. The Grade 2 Risen Star race at Fair Grounds offers a glimpse into the future contenders for the prestigious event. Among the 13 horses entered in the Risen Star, four are part of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager pool, which closes on Sunday. Baffert’s horses are expected to be among the top favorites. However, other notable entries like Citizen Bull and Barnes may not hold the same appeal by the end of the betting period. This article delves into the strategic considerations for betting on these promising young horses.
As the Risen Star race approaches, attention turns to the morning-line favorite East Avenue, whose performance could significantly impact the betting landscape. Despite admiration for Citizen Bull and Barnes, historical data from past pools suggests that these horses might not offer the best value come Sunday. Instead, another Baffert-trained horse, Rodriguez, emerges as a compelling option. Having only competed in one stakes race, where he finished second behind Citizen Bull, Rodriguez shows promise with competitive numbers and untapped potential. A strong showing by East Avenue could further enhance Rodriguez’s attractiveness to bettors.
Patch Adams also warrants consideration due to his impressive maiden win. Although his recent performance in the Southwest Stakes was less stellar, it occurred under challenging conditions following a layoff. His earlier victory remains one of the fastest among this year’s crop, indicating significant potential. The overall sentiment is that this group of horses represents a high-quality, competitive field for the Triple Crown races leading up to May 3 at Churchill Downs.
Ultimately, the upcoming weeks will reveal the true contenders for the Kentucky Derby. As enthusiasts closely follow these promising horses, the stage is set for an exciting and unpredictable journey through the Triple Crown season. With strategic insights and careful analysis, fans and bettors alike can look forward to an exhilarating few months in the world of horse racing.