The upcoming Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis Stakes at Santa Anita Park is shaping up to be a showcase of Bob Baffert's prowess as a trainer. This weekend, three of his horses will compete for Kentucky Derby points, highlighting the depth and strength of his stable. With an almost certain victory predicted, Baffert's trio—Citizen Bull, Rodriguez, and Madaket Road—dominate the field. While Citizen Bull leads the charge as the morning-line favorite, Rodriguez's recent performance suggests he could challenge for the top spot. Meanwhile, Madaket Road remains a strong contender despite facing stiff competition.

Baffert's Trio: A Study in Speed and Strategy

In this tightly contested race, the strategic placement of Baffert's horses cannot be overlooked. Each horse brings unique attributes that make them formidable opponents. Citizen Bull, the reigning champion of last year's 2-year-old male division, enters with a commanding presence. His ability to maintain a lead from start to finish has been well-documented, making him a natural favorite. However, the stakes are higher now, and the competition more intense. Baffert's decision to enter multiple horses in this race allows for tactical flexibility, which could prove decisive.

Citizen Bull's performance in early November at Del Mar demonstrated his raw speed and dominance. Returning after a ten-week break, he faces his stablemate Rodriguez, who showed impressive form just 27 days ago in a maiden win at the same track and distance. The question remains whether Rodriguez can match or even surpass Citizen Bull's pace. In a larger field with more speed, Rodriguez might struggle, but given the current setup, he stands a good chance of leading wire-to-wire. This dynamic creates an intriguing matchup where strategy and speed intersect.

Underdogs and Contenders: Assessing the Field

While Baffert's horses dominate the conversation, it's essential to consider the broader field. Madaket Road, the third entrant from Baffert's stable, should not be underestimated. Despite potentially unfavorable odds, his performance in both winning and exacta markets makes him a noteworthy competitor. The limited field size of five horses may affect betting outcomes, but Madaket Road's potential cannot be dismissed. Fans of this horse should remain optimistic, as he would likely be favored in other Derby preparatory races.

The remaining two horses in the field face an uphill battle. Their chances of victory appear slim, and any win would come as a significant surprise. Nonetheless, every race offers opportunities, and these underdogs might find unexpected openings. For now, the spotlight remains on Baffert's trio, whose performances will shape the narrative of this crucial pre-Derby event. The Robert B. Lewis Stakes promises to be a thrilling display of equine talent and training excellence.