Trainer Bob Baffert's trio of promising three-year-olds—Barnes, Rodriguez, and Citizen Bull—are making significant strides as they prepare for the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes on March 1. Each horse brings unique strengths to the table, with their workouts revealing a competitive edge that could shape the future of this year’s Kentucky Derby contenders.

Witness the Rise of Future Champions in Action

The Unbeaten Force: Barnes Sets the Pace

Barnes, an Into Mischief colt, has been turning heads with his impressive performances. Following his victory in the San Vicente (G2), where he dominated over seven furlongs, Barnes is now gearing up for his first race around two turns in the San Felipe. His recent workout, clocked at six furlongs in 1:12.00, showcases his readiness for the challenge. This performance, coupled with his unbeaten record, positions him as a formidable contender in the upcoming stakes.Barnes has garnered attention from betting markets as well. He closed the Kentucky Derby Future Wager as the 8-1 individual favorite among 39 horses listed. In Las Vegas, he leads the pack at Caesars Sportsbook with odds of +650. The anticipation surrounding Barnes reflects not only his stellar form but also the potential he holds for the prestigious Kentucky Derby.

Rodriguez: Speed and Consistency Combine

Rodriguez, an Authentic colt, demonstrated his prowess during a solo move, completing six furlongs in 1:11.80, tying for the fastest time of the day. This performance underscores his speed and consistency, traits that have become hallmarks of his training regimen under Baffert. Rodriguez recently finished second in the Robert B. Lewis (G3), further solidifying his position as a top prospect.In the Kentucky Derby Future Wager, Rodriguez was priced at 29-1, reflecting cautious optimism about his chances. However, his consistent performances and the backing of seasoned trainers suggest that he could be a dark horse in the upcoming races. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining how far he can go in the high-stakes world of thoroughbred racing.

Citizen Bull: Champion Returns with Promise

Citizen Bull, another Into Mischief colt, made headlines last year as the champion two-year-old. His return to action includes a five-furlong drill in 1:00.60, showcasing his continued excellence. After winning the Robert B. Lewis (G3) in his most recent start, Citizen Bull remains a strong contender for the San Felipe and beyond.The betting markets reflect the respect accorded to Citizen Bull. He closed the latest Kentucky Derby Future Wager pool as the 9-1 second choice and held the same position in Las Vegas futures. His pedigree and past victories make him a horse to watch closely as the season unfolds. Trainers and fans alike are eager to see how he performs in longer distances, particularly in the San Felipe, which could be a pivotal moment in his career.

National Landscape: Other Horses Making Moves

Across the country, several other horses are making notable moves in preparation for the Kentucky Derby. Authentic Gallop, trained by Tom Amoss, clocked the fastest five-furlong work at Fair Grounds, signaling his readiness for the next phase. Big Boat, under James DiVito, also recorded the fastest five-furlong time at Oaklawn, highlighting his potential for future success.Chasing Liberty, Coal Battle, Keewaydin, Modus Bestia, Shea Brennan, and Tiztastic all showed promise in their respective workouts. These horses, each with distinct backgrounds and training regimens, contribute to the rich tapestry of the thoroughbred racing scene. Their performances provide insight into the depth of talent emerging across various tracks, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive season ahead.