KENTUCKY DERBY NEWS AND NOTES
Kentucky Derby Betting: Handicapping The Jockeys
By Doc Sports
The Jockeys:
The cast of jockeys for the 2011 Kentucky Derby is an intriguing combination of dependable veterans and intriguing newcomers. Here are eight of the most interesting storylines with a little handicapping for each jockey:
Calvin Borel, Twice the Appeal (+1700)-You can’t talk about jockeys in the Kentucky Derby without talking about the guy who has won the race three times in the last four years. What’s really intriguing, though, is that Borel almost didn’t wind up in the race. All of his prospects washed out on the road to the Derby, so he was left without a horse and had to steal the ride on this long shot at the last moment.
He doesn’t seem like a top-level horse, but his last prep race, the Sunland Derby, was the same prep race Mine That Bird was in before Borel shocked the world on him. And this horse is happy to start off the pace and move late, so Borel has something to work with.
Garrett Gomez, Master of Hounds (+2500) - Gomez is probably the best jockey in the country to have never won the Derby. He’s come close, like when he was second in 2009 aboard Pioneerof The Nile, but he has never managed to get it done. Like Borel, he found himself out of luck with his regular mounts so he has settled for this European long shot that seems outclassed and has never run on dirt.
Anna Napravnik, Pants on Fire (+1500) - Napravnik, commonly known as Rosie, will become just the sixth woman ever to ride in the Derby, and if she finishes 10th or better then she’ll be the highest finishing woman ever. She’s red hot after having totally dominated the rider standings at Fair Grounds this winter and she has a live horse under her, so it’s a good bet that she’ll set a new standard. Given that she’s just 23 and wildly talented, it’s also a good bet that this won’t be her last Kentucky Derby.
Mike Smith, Twinspired (+3500) - Smith, a true legend of the sport, won this race aboard Giacomo in 2005. The last few years have seen him winning everything in sight, including the hearts of racing fans, aboard Zenyatta, so he’s likely to get more attention than he deserves on this underwhelming horse.
Kerwin Clark, Decisive Moment (+3000) - Kerwin Clark has been riding since he was 16. He just turned 52. He’s never had a mount in the Kentucky Derby before. He’s never even come close. When the gates crack, he’ll become the oldest rookie ever in the Derby, though he won’t be as old as Bill Shoemaker was when he won in 1986, if he pulls of the miracle. Clark is new to the big stage, but he knows his stuff. He has won more than 2,600 career races.
Jon Court, Archarcharch (+1000) - Court is another guy making his Derby debut at an advanced age, but compared to Clark he’s a spring chicken - he’s only 50. Court is one of the true gentlemen of the sport. This appearance is vindication of sorts. He won the Arkansas Derby on Line of David last year, but trainer John Sadler took the Derby ride away from him in a controversial move. The horse finished 18th in the Derby, so it wasn’t a move that paid off. This year, there will be added pressure for Court - the trainer of Archarcharch is his father-in-law. This is an interesting long-shot possibility.
Patrick Valenzuela, Comma to the Top (+3500) - I’ve seen a few guys that are as naturally gifted as Valenzuela is, but I can’t think of any that have more talent. He won the Santa Anita Derby at age 17 in 1980, won the Derby and Preakness aboard Sunday Silence in 1989, and has won seven Breeders’ Cup races including the single most impressive race in Breeders’ Cup history in the Juvenile aboard Arazi in 1992.
Through all the success, though, Valenzuela has struggled badly with drug problems. He’s missed a stunning amount of time due to suspensions and rehab. He seems to have his act together, for the time being at least, and despite the amount of talent he has wasted over the years, I still can’t help cheering for the guy. He’s on a horse that is gaining supporters with strong works and solid performance in California on the Derby trail.
Julien Leparoux, Dialed In (+400) - I’m not convinced that he has the horse to do it this year, but Leparoux is going to win this race sooner than later. The French-born jockey only started riding in 2005, but he has taken the sport by storm. He was the Eclipse Award winner for top jockey in 2009 after winning three Breeders’ Cup races. He has dominated racing in Kentucky for the last several years, winning seven races on a single card in 2008 and six in one day in 2007. He knows and loves the track, he’s wildly talented, and he keeps getting better and better mounts. He’ll win the race more than once.
Kentucky Derby Betting: Handicapping The Jockeys
By Doc Sports
The Jockeys:
The cast of jockeys for the 2011 Kentucky Derby is an intriguing combination of dependable veterans and intriguing newcomers. Here are eight of the most interesting storylines with a little handicapping for each jockey:
Calvin Borel, Twice the Appeal (+1700)-You can’t talk about jockeys in the Kentucky Derby without talking about the guy who has won the race three times in the last four years. What’s really intriguing, though, is that Borel almost didn’t wind up in the race. All of his prospects washed out on the road to the Derby, so he was left without a horse and had to steal the ride on this long shot at the last moment.
He doesn’t seem like a top-level horse, but his last prep race, the Sunland Derby, was the same prep race Mine That Bird was in before Borel shocked the world on him. And this horse is happy to start off the pace and move late, so Borel has something to work with.
Garrett Gomez, Master of Hounds (+2500) - Gomez is probably the best jockey in the country to have never won the Derby. He’s come close, like when he was second in 2009 aboard Pioneerof The Nile, but he has never managed to get it done. Like Borel, he found himself out of luck with his regular mounts so he has settled for this European long shot that seems outclassed and has never run on dirt.
Anna Napravnik, Pants on Fire (+1500) - Napravnik, commonly known as Rosie, will become just the sixth woman ever to ride in the Derby, and if she finishes 10th or better then she’ll be the highest finishing woman ever. She’s red hot after having totally dominated the rider standings at Fair Grounds this winter and she has a live horse under her, so it’s a good bet that she’ll set a new standard. Given that she’s just 23 and wildly talented, it’s also a good bet that this won’t be her last Kentucky Derby.
Mike Smith, Twinspired (+3500) - Smith, a true legend of the sport, won this race aboard Giacomo in 2005. The last few years have seen him winning everything in sight, including the hearts of racing fans, aboard Zenyatta, so he’s likely to get more attention than he deserves on this underwhelming horse.
Kerwin Clark, Decisive Moment (+3000) - Kerwin Clark has been riding since he was 16. He just turned 52. He’s never had a mount in the Kentucky Derby before. He’s never even come close. When the gates crack, he’ll become the oldest rookie ever in the Derby, though he won’t be as old as Bill Shoemaker was when he won in 1986, if he pulls of the miracle. Clark is new to the big stage, but he knows his stuff. He has won more than 2,600 career races.
Jon Court, Archarcharch (+1000) - Court is another guy making his Derby debut at an advanced age, but compared to Clark he’s a spring chicken - he’s only 50. Court is one of the true gentlemen of the sport. This appearance is vindication of sorts. He won the Arkansas Derby on Line of David last year, but trainer John Sadler took the Derby ride away from him in a controversial move. The horse finished 18th in the Derby, so it wasn’t a move that paid off. This year, there will be added pressure for Court - the trainer of Archarcharch is his father-in-law. This is an interesting long-shot possibility.
Patrick Valenzuela, Comma to the Top (+3500) - I’ve seen a few guys that are as naturally gifted as Valenzuela is, but I can’t think of any that have more talent. He won the Santa Anita Derby at age 17 in 1980, won the Derby and Preakness aboard Sunday Silence in 1989, and has won seven Breeders’ Cup races including the single most impressive race in Breeders’ Cup history in the Juvenile aboard Arazi in 1992.
Through all the success, though, Valenzuela has struggled badly with drug problems. He’s missed a stunning amount of time due to suspensions and rehab. He seems to have his act together, for the time being at least, and despite the amount of talent he has wasted over the years, I still can’t help cheering for the guy. He’s on a horse that is gaining supporters with strong works and solid performance in California on the Derby trail.
Julien Leparoux, Dialed In (+400) - I’m not convinced that he has the horse to do it this year, but Leparoux is going to win this race sooner than later. The French-born jockey only started riding in 2005, but he has taken the sport by storm. He was the Eclipse Award winner for top jockey in 2009 after winning three Breeders’ Cup races. He has dominated racing in Kentucky for the last several years, winning seven races on a single card in 2008 and six in one day in 2007. He knows and loves the track, he’s wildly talented, and he keeps getting better and better mounts. He’ll win the race more than once.
KENTUCKY DERBY NEWS AND NOTES
Kentucky Derby Odds: Top 5 Long-Shot Bets
By Bill Cloutier
Picking The Long-Shot
With a full field of 20 horses, many of which seem to have a chance, you might as well say picking a long shot at the 137th Kentucky Derby is merely picking the winner.
A look over the Kentucky Derby odds reveals Dialed In listed as the chalk at a hefty 4-1 and Uncle Mo right behind at 5-1, so there's plenty of value on any horse to win.
You can practically guarantee that you're looking at an exacta that will pay over $100 and a trifecta at least of $1,000.
But, if you really want boxcars, how about putting one of these bombers on top?
Here Are The Top 5 Long-Shots To Win The Derby:
11. Master of Hounds (20-1): It's a long way from Tipperary for this three-year-old. The Gomez mount had a rousing performance at the UAE (Dubai) Derby and is the only horse in the race to have run 1 3/16 miles. He's well-bred and trained by Aidan O'Brien, and the European invader's sole victory was a low-price maiden race in Tipperary.
13. Mucho Macho Man (12-1): Has a win and has been no worse than fourth in five prep races. This is a big horse which has run 1 1/8 miles twice and against large, competitive fields. The Macho Man has seen all the best horses in training and won the Risen Star.
3. Twice The Appeal (30-1): I'll be honest, I really don't like this one but can you imagine as they turn for home and a long shot is making an outrageous run along the rail and Calvin Borel is aboard. Borel has won this race three of the past four years. Don't count him out.
1. Archarcharch (10-1): The rail could be unkind to the Arkansas Derby winner and at 10-1 he's practically one of the favorites. “Not a good place to be. I’ve never liked the one hole, but you got to do what you got to do,” said trainer William “Jinks” Fires. Ferdinand is the last horse to win from the rail (1986).
14. Shackleford (20-1): Finished second to the favorite, Dialed In, in the Florida Derby. Has a win at 1 1/8 miles in an allowance race and has run three races at that distance. He's also won at Churchill Downs but may want the lead and that's going to be tough to get here.
Kentucky Derby Odds: Top 5 Long-Shot Bets
By Bill Cloutier
Picking The Long-Shot
With a full field of 20 horses, many of which seem to have a chance, you might as well say picking a long shot at the 137th Kentucky Derby is merely picking the winner.
A look over the Kentucky Derby odds reveals Dialed In listed as the chalk at a hefty 4-1 and Uncle Mo right behind at 5-1, so there's plenty of value on any horse to win.
You can practically guarantee that you're looking at an exacta that will pay over $100 and a trifecta at least of $1,000.
But, if you really want boxcars, how about putting one of these bombers on top?
Here Are The Top 5 Long-Shots To Win The Derby:
11. Master of Hounds (20-1): It's a long way from Tipperary for this three-year-old. The Gomez mount had a rousing performance at the UAE (Dubai) Derby and is the only horse in the race to have run 1 3/16 miles. He's well-bred and trained by Aidan O'Brien, and the European invader's sole victory was a low-price maiden race in Tipperary.
13. Mucho Macho Man (12-1): Has a win and has been no worse than fourth in five prep races. This is a big horse which has run 1 1/8 miles twice and against large, competitive fields. The Macho Man has seen all the best horses in training and won the Risen Star.
3. Twice The Appeal (30-1): I'll be honest, I really don't like this one but can you imagine as they turn for home and a long shot is making an outrageous run along the rail and Calvin Borel is aboard. Borel has won this race three of the past four years. Don't count him out.
1. Archarcharch (10-1): The rail could be unkind to the Arkansas Derby winner and at 10-1 he's practically one of the favorites. “Not a good place to be. I’ve never liked the one hole, but you got to do what you got to do,” said trainer William “Jinks” Fires. Ferdinand is the last horse to win from the rail (1986).
14. Shackleford (20-1): Finished second to the favorite, Dialed In, in the Florida Derby. Has a win at 1 1/8 miles in an allowance race and has run three races at that distance. He's also won at Churchill Downs but may want the lead and that's going to be tough to get here.
KENTUCKY DERBY NEWS AND NOTES
Kentucky Derby Odds Find Dialed In Favored
By: Jeff Grant
The Favorite; Dialed In +290 ML
The calendar has turned to May and it’s time for people to start asking the question, “Who do you like in the Derby?”
It’s a question that will be asked more and more leading up to Saturday’s 137th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Post time is listed at 3:24 p.m. (PT) and the race can be seen on NBC.
Before making a pick on the “Fastest Two Minutes in Sports,” bettors will anxiously await the Derby post position draw that will take place on Wednesday, May 4 (2:00 p.m. PT) with VERSUS providing coverage of that event.
Track conditions and weather will also prove to be an important factor in handicapping Saturday’s race due to the Louisville area receiving over 11 inches of rain during the month of April. Early forecasts suggest isolated thunderstorms on Saturday with a warmer temperature of around 77 degrees come race time.
The current favorite on many future boards is Dialed In (+290), the winner of the Florida Derby by a head, while producing a 93 Beyer Speed Figure. The three-year-old was bred out of Mineshaft (sire) and Miss Doolittle (dam). He has been ridden by Julien Leparoux in all four starts, missing a perfect resume by a half-length in his third race.
The prep races for all Derby contenders have featured numerous upsets, so it might not be a good idea to accept low odds on any contender in the race. Uncle Mo (+325) has the name to capture the hearts of the casual bettor and will undoubtedly go off at odds that don’t suit his current form.
Jockey John Velazquez was in the irons as trainer Todd Pletcher’s star horse covered five furlongs in 1:01.60 on the main track. He was sensational as a two-year-old, going 3-for-3 and capping a championship season with a 4 1/4-length victory in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. That particular performance produced a 108 Beyer Speed Figure, which simply can’t be matched by any other horse in the field.
Mineshaft has another opportunity to produce a winner in the likes of Nehro (+550), who many experts believe may improve greatly with the added distance of the Derby. In finishing second at both the Arkansas and Louisiana Derby, he may be overvalued considering he just broke his maiden nine weeks ago in a 32k maiden special weight race. Never beating a stakes-quality field is a major drawback at his current price.
Female bettors may not have a worthy filly to bet on for the big race, but Pants on Fire (+3000) supplies a jockey angle of interest. Rosie Napravnik was aboard Sunday’s breeze of four furlongs in 0:47 4/5 on an off track, which was the seventh-best time over the distance. Napravnik will try to become the first female jockey to win the Derby and took a major step in that direction by winning two races on Saturday’s opening-night card at Churchill.
This year’s field seems as wide open as any in memory and will offer plenty of opportunity to select a horse with great value. For many, it could be as simple as choosing an entertaining name such as Master of Hounds (+1750) or Mucho Macho Man (+1500).
Kentucky Derby Odds Find Dialed In Favored
By: Jeff Grant
The Favorite; Dialed In +290 ML
The calendar has turned to May and it’s time for people to start asking the question, “Who do you like in the Derby?”
It’s a question that will be asked more and more leading up to Saturday’s 137th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs. Post time is listed at 3:24 p.m. (PT) and the race can be seen on NBC.
Before making a pick on the “Fastest Two Minutes in Sports,” bettors will anxiously await the Derby post position draw that will take place on Wednesday, May 4 (2:00 p.m. PT) with VERSUS providing coverage of that event.
Track conditions and weather will also prove to be an important factor in handicapping Saturday’s race due to the Louisville area receiving over 11 inches of rain during the month of April. Early forecasts suggest isolated thunderstorms on Saturday with a warmer temperature of around 77 degrees come race time.
The current favorite on many future boards is Dialed In (+290), the winner of the Florida Derby by a head, while producing a 93 Beyer Speed Figure. The three-year-old was bred out of Mineshaft (sire) and Miss Doolittle (dam). He has been ridden by Julien Leparoux in all four starts, missing a perfect resume by a half-length in his third race.
The prep races for all Derby contenders have featured numerous upsets, so it might not be a good idea to accept low odds on any contender in the race. Uncle Mo (+325) has the name to capture the hearts of the casual bettor and will undoubtedly go off at odds that don’t suit his current form.
Jockey John Velazquez was in the irons as trainer Todd Pletcher’s star horse covered five furlongs in 1:01.60 on the main track. He was sensational as a two-year-old, going 3-for-3 and capping a championship season with a 4 1/4-length victory in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. That particular performance produced a 108 Beyer Speed Figure, which simply can’t be matched by any other horse in the field.
Mineshaft has another opportunity to produce a winner in the likes of Nehro (+550), who many experts believe may improve greatly with the added distance of the Derby. In finishing second at both the Arkansas and Louisiana Derby, he may be overvalued considering he just broke his maiden nine weeks ago in a 32k maiden special weight race. Never beating a stakes-quality field is a major drawback at his current price.
Female bettors may not have a worthy filly to bet on for the big race, but Pants on Fire (+3000) supplies a jockey angle of interest. Rosie Napravnik was aboard Sunday’s breeze of four furlongs in 0:47 4/5 on an off track, which was the seventh-best time over the distance. Napravnik will try to become the first female jockey to win the Derby and took a major step in that direction by winning two races on Saturday’s opening-night card at Churchill.
This year’s field seems as wide open as any in memory and will offer plenty of opportunity to select a horse with great value. For many, it could be as simple as choosing an entertaining name such as Master of Hounds (+1750) or Mucho Macho Man (+1500).
KENTUCKY DERBY NEWS AND NOTES
2011 Kentucky Derby Post Positions & Trends – Archarcharch Wins Rail
By Anthony Rome
2011 KENTUCKY DERBY
The post positions for the 2011 Kentucky Derby have been drawn and Archarcharch will start on the rail this Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Some believe that the post positions for the Kentucky Derby don’t matter and maybe if you’re just talking about one individual race, they don’t. But when you take into account all of the numbers dating back to 1900 when Lieut. Gibson won out of post position No. 3, yeah, they matter.
The rail and the No. 5 post have won the most since 1900. Each position has won 12 times, while the No. 4 post has won 11 times. The No. 8 and the No. 10 post positions have won 10 times, while the No. 2 post has won nine times. The No. 3 and No. 7 post positions have won eight times apiece. Archarcharch will start in the rail, while long shot Decisive Moment will begin in the No. 5 post this Saturday. Derby winner Dialed In will start in the No. 8 spot, while long shot Twinspired as the No. 10 position.
The No. 20 post position won all the way back in 1929 and it took Big Brown to win out of the spot again in 2008 for the No. 20 position to have two victories. While that post may seem cursed, consider that the No. 17 and No. 19 post positions have never won a Kentucky Derby, while the No. 18 spot has won only once. Along with the No. 20 spot, the No. 14 post position has won only twice.
The fact that Dialed In got the No. 8 post position will only help his odds. Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Dialed In’s odds at the start of the day at +300 (making him the favorite), while Uncle Mo was +350 and Nehro was +450. Archarcharch was +900 and Mucho Macho Man was +1400. One noteworthy horse to keep an eye on is Twice the Appeal, whose jockey is Calvin Borel – the man who has won three Kentucky Derby’s in the last four years (2007, 2008, 2010).
Below are odds and post positions for every contender in the 2011 Kentucky Derby.
2011 Kentucky Derby 137 Odds to Win
No. 1 Archarcharch +900
No. 2 Brilliant Speed +3000
No.3 Twice The Appeal +1800
No. 4 Stay Thirsty +2500
No. 5 Decisive Moment +5500
No. 6 Comma to the Top +2000
No. 7 Pants On Fire +3000
No. 8 Dialed In +300
No. 9 Derby Kitten +4000
No. 10 Twinspired +4500
No. 11 Master Of Hounds +2000
No. 12 Santiva +2000
No. 13 Mucho Macho Man +1400
No. 14 Shackleford +2000
No. 15 Midnight Interlude +1400
No. 16 Animal Kingdom +3000
No. 17 Soldat +1400
No. 18 Uncle Mo +350
No. 19 Nehro +450
No. 20 Watch Me Go +4000
2011 Kentucky Derby Post Positions & Trends – Archarcharch Wins Rail
By Anthony Rome
2011 KENTUCKY DERBY
The post positions for the 2011 Kentucky Derby have been drawn and Archarcharch will start on the rail this Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Some believe that the post positions for the Kentucky Derby don’t matter and maybe if you’re just talking about one individual race, they don’t. But when you take into account all of the numbers dating back to 1900 when Lieut. Gibson won out of post position No. 3, yeah, they matter.
The rail and the No. 5 post have won the most since 1900. Each position has won 12 times, while the No. 4 post has won 11 times. The No. 8 and the No. 10 post positions have won 10 times, while the No. 2 post has won nine times. The No. 3 and No. 7 post positions have won eight times apiece. Archarcharch will start in the rail, while long shot Decisive Moment will begin in the No. 5 post this Saturday. Derby winner Dialed In will start in the No. 8 spot, while long shot Twinspired as the No. 10 position.
The No. 20 post position won all the way back in 1929 and it took Big Brown to win out of the spot again in 2008 for the No. 20 position to have two victories. While that post may seem cursed, consider that the No. 17 and No. 19 post positions have never won a Kentucky Derby, while the No. 18 spot has won only once. Along with the No. 20 spot, the No. 14 post position has won only twice.
The fact that Dialed In got the No. 8 post position will only help his odds. Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Dialed In’s odds at the start of the day at +300 (making him the favorite), while Uncle Mo was +350 and Nehro was +450. Archarcharch was +900 and Mucho Macho Man was +1400. One noteworthy horse to keep an eye on is Twice the Appeal, whose jockey is Calvin Borel – the man who has won three Kentucky Derby’s in the last four years (2007, 2008, 2010).
Below are odds and post positions for every contender in the 2011 Kentucky Derby.
2011 Kentucky Derby 137 Odds to Win
No. 1 Archarcharch +900
No. 2 Brilliant Speed +3000
No.3 Twice The Appeal +1800
No. 4 Stay Thirsty +2500
No. 5 Decisive Moment +5500
No. 6 Comma to the Top +2000
No. 7 Pants On Fire +3000
No. 8 Dialed In +300
No. 9 Derby Kitten +4000
No. 10 Twinspired +4500
No. 11 Master Of Hounds +2000
No. 12 Santiva +2000
No. 13 Mucho Macho Man +1400
No. 14 Shackleford +2000
No. 15 Midnight Interlude +1400
No. 16 Animal Kingdom +3000
No. 17 Soldat +1400
No. 18 Uncle Mo +350
No. 19 Nehro +450
No. 20 Watch Me Go +4000
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
2011 Kentucky Derby Odds – Twinspired a Long Shot at Churchill Downs
By Anthony Rome
TWINSPIRED
One of the long shots that will take to the dirt this weekend at the 2011 Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs is Twinspired.
Opening Odds: When the opening odds were released at the beginning of the week, Twinspired was +5000 on the money line, while Dialed In was a +350 money line favorite and Uncle Mo was +400. Nehro had the third best odds at +600.
Current Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com currently list Twinspired at +5000 on the money line. But while his odds haven’t changed from the opening lines, Dialed In’s have. He’s now +140 on the money line to win this year’s Kentucky Derby, while Uncle Mo (+400) and Nehro’s (+600) odds have stayed the same.
Race History: In his last outing, Twinspired finished second at the Blue Grass (Grade 1) behind Brilliant Speed. Before that, he finished third at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26 behind Animal Kingdom and Decisivie Moment. He did win the WEBN on February 5 of this year, so he has shown the ability to not only finish in the top 3 but also produce a victory.
Outlook: One of the knocks on Twinspired is that he may be a “synthetic specialist” in the same mold of Stately Victor, who received some attention as a potential sleeper heading into the 2010 Kentucky Derby. Stately Victor (who was +3000 the morning of the ’10 Derby and moved to +2000 right before the race) then finished a disappointing eighth.
2011 Kentucky Derby Odds – Twinspired a Long Shot at Churchill Downs
By Anthony Rome
TWINSPIRED
One of the long shots that will take to the dirt this weekend at the 2011 Kentucky Derby from Churchill Downs is Twinspired.
Opening Odds: When the opening odds were released at the beginning of the week, Twinspired was +5000 on the money line, while Dialed In was a +350 money line favorite and Uncle Mo was +400. Nehro had the third best odds at +600.
Current Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com currently list Twinspired at +5000 on the money line. But while his odds haven’t changed from the opening lines, Dialed In’s have. He’s now +140 on the money line to win this year’s Kentucky Derby, while Uncle Mo (+400) and Nehro’s (+600) odds have stayed the same.
Race History: In his last outing, Twinspired finished second at the Blue Grass (Grade 1) behind Brilliant Speed. Before that, he finished third at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26 behind Animal Kingdom and Decisivie Moment. He did win the WEBN on February 5 of this year, so he has shown the ability to not only finish in the top 3 but also produce a victory.
Outlook: One of the knocks on Twinspired is that he may be a “synthetic specialist” in the same mold of Stately Victor, who received some attention as a potential sleeper heading into the 2010 Kentucky Derby. Stately Victor (who was +3000 the morning of the ’10 Derby and moved to +2000 right before the race) then finished a disappointing eighth.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting: Comma to the Top Among the Long Shots
By Anthony Rome
COMMA
Comma to the Top will be among the many long shots at the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby this Saturday.
Opening Odds: When oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com released the opening odds for the 2011 Kentucky Derby, Comma to the Top was listed at +5000. That made him one of the many long shots to Dialed In, who is +140 to win this year’s Derby at Churchill Downs.
Current Odds: Comma to the Top still finds himself as a +5000 money line long shot to win this year’s Derby, and Dialed In is still the favorite (although now he’s +140 on the ML). Among some of the other thoroughbreds to keep an eye on this week are Uncle Mo (+400), Nehro (+600) and Archarcharch (+600).
Race History: Comma to the Top hasn’t won since last December when he placed first at the CashCall Futurity (Grade 1). Since then he’s placed fourth at the El Camino Real Derby (Grade 3), fourth again at the San Felipe (Grade 2) and in his most recent outing, he placed second at the Santa Anita Derby (Grade 1) behind Midnight Interlude.
Outlook: Comma to the Top certainly has the speed to hang with the rest of the field but after two, four or even six furlongs, he’s going to have a hard time beating out the big boys. Pundits believe he’ll fade down the stretch, which why his odds remain long to win this year’s Derby.
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting: Comma to the Top Among the Long Shots
By Anthony Rome
COMMA
Comma to the Top will be among the many long shots at the 137th running of the Kentucky Derby this Saturday.
Opening Odds: When oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com released the opening odds for the 2011 Kentucky Derby, Comma to the Top was listed at +5000. That made him one of the many long shots to Dialed In, who is +140 to win this year’s Derby at Churchill Downs.
Current Odds: Comma to the Top still finds himself as a +5000 money line long shot to win this year’s Derby, and Dialed In is still the favorite (although now he’s +140 on the ML). Among some of the other thoroughbreds to keep an eye on this week are Uncle Mo (+400), Nehro (+600) and Archarcharch (+600).
Race History: Comma to the Top hasn’t won since last December when he placed first at the CashCall Futurity (Grade 1). Since then he’s placed fourth at the El Camino Real Derby (Grade 3), fourth again at the San Felipe (Grade 2) and in his most recent outing, he placed second at the Santa Anita Derby (Grade 1) behind Midnight Interlude.
Outlook: Comma to the Top certainly has the speed to hang with the rest of the field but after two, four or even six furlongs, he’s going to have a hard time beating out the big boys. Pundits believe he’ll fade down the stretch, which why his odds remain long to win this year’s Derby.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Decisive Moment Finds Himself as a Long Shot at the 2011 Kentucky Derby
By Anthony Rome
DECISIVE MOMENT
If Decisive Moment is going to win this weekend at the 2011 Kentucky Derby, he’ll have to overcome some long odds.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com listed Decisive Moment a +6000 money line long shot to win this year’s Kentucky Derby when the odds were first released earlier this week. Comparatively, Derby favorite Dialed in was +350 while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: While Uncle Mo and Nehro’s odds haven’t budged, both Decisive Moment and Dialed In’s lines have improved. Decisive Moment went from +6000 on the money line to +4500, while Dialed In went from +350 to +140, making him the clear cut favorite to win this Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Race History: Decisive Moment has had some inconsistent results this year but overall, his recent race history isn’t bad. He finished second at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26 behind Derby competitor Animal Kingdom, and won the Jean Lafitte on January 14. But between those two races, he finished fifth at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19, which is the highest graded race he’s run in to date.
Outlook: He’s second place finish at the Spiral has certainly drawn some attention and while he’s a nice looking horse overall, he remains a long shot along with Twinspired, Watch Me Go and Comma to the Top as far as winning the Derby.
Decisive Moment Finds Himself as a Long Shot at the 2011 Kentucky Derby
By Anthony Rome
DECISIVE MOMENT
If Decisive Moment is going to win this weekend at the 2011 Kentucky Derby, he’ll have to overcome some long odds.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com listed Decisive Moment a +6000 money line long shot to win this year’s Kentucky Derby when the odds were first released earlier this week. Comparatively, Derby favorite Dialed in was +350 while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: While Uncle Mo and Nehro’s odds haven’t budged, both Decisive Moment and Dialed In’s lines have improved. Decisive Moment went from +6000 on the money line to +4500, while Dialed In went from +350 to +140, making him the clear cut favorite to win this Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Race History: Decisive Moment has had some inconsistent results this year but overall, his recent race history isn’t bad. He finished second at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26 behind Derby competitor Animal Kingdom, and won the Jean Lafitte on January 14. But between those two races, he finished fifth at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19, which is the highest graded race he’s run in to date.
Outlook: He’s second place finish at the Spiral has certainly drawn some attention and while he’s a nice looking horse overall, he remains a long shot along with Twinspired, Watch Me Go and Comma to the Top as far as winning the Derby.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Kentucky Derby 137 Opening Odds: Santiva a Long Shot at Churchill Downs
By Anthony Rome
SANTIVA
Not much is expected out of Kentucky Derby 137 long shot Santiva, although that doesn’t mean that he won’t surprise this weekend.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com made Santiva a +4200 money line to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby. Compare Santiva’s odds to those of Dialed In (who opened at +350 on the money line), and it’s obvious that the 3-year-old colt is a long shot to win this weekend at Churchill Downs.
Current Odds: Along with Watch Me Go, Twinspired, Comma to the Top and Decisive Moment, Santiva remains one of the long shots this weekend. In fact, his odds have yet to change, whereas Derby favorite Dialed In went from +350 on the money line to +140. Uncle Mo is +400, Nehro is +600 and Archarcharch is +600.
Race History: Santiva’s last outing at Blue Grass (Grade 1) was awful, as he finished ninth behind Brilliant Speed, King Congie and others. Making matters worse, fellow Derby long shot, Twinspired, finished second at Blue Grass. That said, Santiva did finish second at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19 and won the Kentucky Jockey Club (Grade 2) in November of last year. He also finished second at the Breeders’ Futurity (Grade 1) on October 19 of 2010, so he does show promise.
Outlook: Grouping Santiva with fellow long shots Twinspired, Decisive Moment, Watch Me Go and Comma to the Top is probably a little unfair. Some believe that Blue Grass means very little in terms of how thoroughbreds will fair at the Kentucky Derby, so it might be wise to take Santiva’s ninth place finish there with a grain of salt. Still, his poor outing at Blue Grass may have shown that Santiva won’t be able to hang with the favorites this Saturday.
Kentucky Derby 137 Opening Odds: Santiva a Long Shot at Churchill Downs
By Anthony Rome
SANTIVA
Not much is expected out of Kentucky Derby 137 long shot Santiva, although that doesn’t mean that he won’t surprise this weekend.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com made Santiva a +4200 money line to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby. Compare Santiva’s odds to those of Dialed In (who opened at +350 on the money line), and it’s obvious that the 3-year-old colt is a long shot to win this weekend at Churchill Downs.
Current Odds: Along with Watch Me Go, Twinspired, Comma to the Top and Decisive Moment, Santiva remains one of the long shots this weekend. In fact, his odds have yet to change, whereas Derby favorite Dialed In went from +350 on the money line to +140. Uncle Mo is +400, Nehro is +600 and Archarcharch is +600.
Race History: Santiva’s last outing at Blue Grass (Grade 1) was awful, as he finished ninth behind Brilliant Speed, King Congie and others. Making matters worse, fellow Derby long shot, Twinspired, finished second at Blue Grass. That said, Santiva did finish second at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19 and won the Kentucky Jockey Club (Grade 2) in November of last year. He also finished second at the Breeders’ Futurity (Grade 1) on October 19 of 2010, so he does show promise.
Outlook: Grouping Santiva with fellow long shots Twinspired, Decisive Moment, Watch Me Go and Comma to the Top is probably a little unfair. Some believe that Blue Grass means very little in terms of how thoroughbreds will fair at the Kentucky Derby, so it might be wise to take Santiva’s ninth place finish there with a grain of salt. Still, his poor outing at Blue Grass may have shown that Santiva won’t be able to hang with the favorites this Saturday.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
2011 Kentucky Derby Betting Odds: Derby Kitten Long Shot to Win
By Anthony Rome
DERBY KITTEN
One of the many long shots that will take the dirt at Churchill Downs this weekend is Derby Kitten. But will he surprise at the 2011 Kentucky Derby?
Opening Odds: When the opening odds were released earlier this week, oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Derby Kitten as a +4000 money line long shot to win this year’s Kentucky Derby. Dialed In was the favorite at +350, while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: An update of the current odds reveals that Derby Kitten is still +4000 on the money line, which is noteworthy when you consider that other long shots like Comma to the Top (+5000 to +2000) improved their odds. Dialed In is still the favorite at +300, while Uncle Mo is listed right behind him at +350.
Race History: Derby Kitten is coming off a win over Prime Cut in the Coolmore Lexington Stakes (Grade 3). In fact, he hasn’t finished lower than second in any of his previous races, although they weren’t graded stakes either. He placed second at Alligator Alley on April 2 and second at Overnight Stake on February 5.
2011 Kentucky Derby Betting Odds: Derby Kitten Long Shot to Win
By Anthony Rome
DERBY KITTEN
One of the many long shots that will take the dirt at Churchill Downs this weekend is Derby Kitten. But will he surprise at the 2011 Kentucky Derby?
Opening Odds: When the opening odds were released earlier this week, oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Derby Kitten as a +4000 money line long shot to win this year’s Kentucky Derby. Dialed In was the favorite at +350, while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: An update of the current odds reveals that Derby Kitten is still +4000 on the money line, which is noteworthy when you consider that other long shots like Comma to the Top (+5000 to +2000) improved their odds. Dialed In is still the favorite at +300, while Uncle Mo is listed right behind him at +350.
Race History: Derby Kitten is coming off a win over Prime Cut in the Coolmore Lexington Stakes (Grade 3). In fact, he hasn’t finished lower than second in any of his previous races, although they weren’t graded stakes either. He placed second at Alligator Alley on April 2 and second at Overnight Stake on February 5.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting Odds – Contender Sway Away a Long Shot
By Anthony Rome
CONTENDER SWAY
As we continue our look at the Kentucky Derby 137 odds, today we check out another long shot in Sway Away.
Opening Odds: When oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com released the opening odds for the week leading up to the Kentucky Derby, Sway Away was +3500 on the money line. The favorite was Dialed In at +350, although Uncle Mo (+400) and Nehro (+600) were right behind him in terms of odds to win.
Current Odds: Sway Away’s odds have slightly improved now that we’re a couple of days away from this year’s action at Churchill Downs. He’s now +3000 on the money line and although that still makes him a long shot to win, at least his odds have improved. Dialed In is still the favorite at +300, but Uncle Mo (+350) and Nehro’s (+450) odds have improved.
Race History: Sway Away’s recent race history won’t garner much confidence from bettors. He finished fourth at the Arkansas Derby (Grade 1) behind fellow Kentucky Derby contenders Archarcharch and Nehro, and finished sixth at the Rebel Stakes (Grade 2) on March 19. He did place second at the San Vicente (Grade 2) on February 20 and the one good thing about Sway Away is that he does have some experience going against decent competition. (Unlike other contenders, who’ve had limited experience against graded competition.)
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting Odds – Contender Sway Away a Long Shot
By Anthony Rome
CONTENDER SWAY
As we continue our look at the Kentucky Derby 137 odds, today we check out another long shot in Sway Away.
Opening Odds: When oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com released the opening odds for the week leading up to the Kentucky Derby, Sway Away was +3500 on the money line. The favorite was Dialed In at +350, although Uncle Mo (+400) and Nehro (+600) were right behind him in terms of odds to win.
Current Odds: Sway Away’s odds have slightly improved now that we’re a couple of days away from this year’s action at Churchill Downs. He’s now +3000 on the money line and although that still makes him a long shot to win, at least his odds have improved. Dialed In is still the favorite at +300, but Uncle Mo (+350) and Nehro’s (+450) odds have improved.
Race History: Sway Away’s recent race history won’t garner much confidence from bettors. He finished fourth at the Arkansas Derby (Grade 1) behind fellow Kentucky Derby contenders Archarcharch and Nehro, and finished sixth at the Rebel Stakes (Grade 2) on March 19. He did place second at the San Vicente (Grade 2) on February 20 and the one good thing about Sway Away is that he does have some experience going against decent competition. (Unlike other contenders, who’ve had limited experience against graded competition.)
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
2011 Kentucky Derby: What are Brilliant Speed’s Odds to Win?
By Anthony Rome
BRILLIANT SPEED
What are Brilliant Speed’s odds to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby? We’re glad you asked.
Opening Odds: Brilliant Speed opened at +3000 on the money line to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby, which takes place this Saturday at Churchill Downs. Comparatively, Dialed In opened as a +350 favorite, while Uncle Mo was listed right behind Dialed In at +400 on the money line. Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: Brilliant Speed’s odds have changed according to oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com. He remains a +3000 money line long shot, while Dialed In’s odds have improved to +300, Uncle Mo has gone from +400 to +350, and Nehro has gone from +600 to +450.
Race History: Brilliant Speed has found a fair amount of success this year. He finished second at Dania Beach on January 16 before placing third at Hallandale Beach on February 6. In his latest race, he won the Blue Grass (Grade 1) over fellow Kentucky Derby contender Twinspired, leaving some to believe that Brilliant Speed might be a long shot that’s worth keeping an eye on leading up to the race.
Outlook: While he did win the Blue Grass, that form means very little to some observers. He probably will have more success once he gets on turf this summer, so consider Brilliant Speed a long shot to pull off a victory on dirt this weekend at Churchill Downs.
2011 Kentucky Derby: What are Brilliant Speed’s Odds to Win?
By Anthony Rome
BRILLIANT SPEED
What are Brilliant Speed’s odds to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby? We’re glad you asked.
Opening Odds: Brilliant Speed opened at +3000 on the money line to win the 2011 Kentucky Derby, which takes place this Saturday at Churchill Downs. Comparatively, Dialed In opened as a +350 favorite, while Uncle Mo was listed right behind Dialed In at +400 on the money line. Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: Brilliant Speed’s odds have changed according to oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com. He remains a +3000 money line long shot, while Dialed In’s odds have improved to +300, Uncle Mo has gone from +400 to +350, and Nehro has gone from +600 to +450.
Race History: Brilliant Speed has found a fair amount of success this year. He finished second at Dania Beach on January 16 before placing third at Hallandale Beach on February 6. In his latest race, he won the Blue Grass (Grade 1) over fellow Kentucky Derby contender Twinspired, leaving some to believe that Brilliant Speed might be a long shot that’s worth keeping an eye on leading up to the race.
Outlook: While he did win the Blue Grass, that form means very little to some observers. He probably will have more success once he gets on turf this summer, so consider Brilliant Speed a long shot to pull off a victory on dirt this weekend at Churchill Downs.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting Odds: Is Pants On Fire a Potential Sleeper?
By Anthony Rome
PANTS ON FIRE
One of the potential sleepers in this Saturday’s Kentucky Derby 137 might be Pants On Fire, who seems to be gaining some attention.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com listed Pants On Fire at +2800 when the Kentucky Derby odds were released earlier this week. Dialed In was the favorite at +350, while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: Pants On Fire’s odds have actually gotten worse, even though some believe he may be a potential sleeper this weekend. He’s now +3000 on the money line, which are the same odds as fellow long shots Animal Kingdom, Sway Away and Brilliant Speed. Dialed In is still the favorite, although now he’s +300. Uncle Mo (+350) and Nehro’s (+450) odds have also improved.
Race History: The reason Pants On Fire is starting to receive some attention around the web is because he’s coming off a victory at the Louisiana Derby (Grade 2) on March 26. And since it’ll be over a month since he last ran, it’s clear he’ll be well rested by the time he takes the dirt at Churchill Downs. That said, he finished a disappointing sixth at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19 of this year.
Outlook: One of the pluses of betting on Pants On Fire is that he’s apparently as healthy as he’s been in his career. It’s clear from his win at the Louisiana Derby that he’s a good looking horse, but does he have what it takes to win this weekend against some of the favorites?
Kentucky Derby 137 Betting Odds: Is Pants On Fire a Potential Sleeper?
By Anthony Rome
PANTS ON FIRE
One of the potential sleepers in this Saturday’s Kentucky Derby 137 might be Pants On Fire, who seems to be gaining some attention.
Opening Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book Bodog.com listed Pants On Fire at +2800 when the Kentucky Derby odds were released earlier this week. Dialed In was the favorite at +350, while Uncle Mo was +400 and Nehro was +600.
Current Odds: Pants On Fire’s odds have actually gotten worse, even though some believe he may be a potential sleeper this weekend. He’s now +3000 on the money line, which are the same odds as fellow long shots Animal Kingdom, Sway Away and Brilliant Speed. Dialed In is still the favorite, although now he’s +300. Uncle Mo (+350) and Nehro’s (+450) odds have also improved.
Race History: The reason Pants On Fire is starting to receive some attention around the web is because he’s coming off a victory at the Louisiana Derby (Grade 2) on March 26. And since it’ll be over a month since he last ran, it’s clear he’ll be well rested by the time he takes the dirt at Churchill Downs. That said, he finished a disappointing sixth at the Risen Star (Grade 2) on February 19 of this year.
Outlook: One of the pluses of betting on Pants On Fire is that he’s apparently as healthy as he’s been in his career. It’s clear from his win at the Louisiana Derby that he’s a good looking horse, but does he have what it takes to win this weekend against some of the favorites?
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
2011 Kentucky Derby Betting: What are Animal Kingdom’s Odds?
By Anthony Rome
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Animal Kingdom is one of the long shots to win this year’s Kentucky Derby, which will take place on Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Odds: When the odds opened earlier this week, Animal Kingdom was listed at +4000 according to online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com. And while his odds have improved to +3000, he remains one of the long shots along with Derby Kitten, Master Of Hounds, Santiva, Twinspired and Watch Me Go.
Race History: Animal Kingdom is coming off an impressive showing at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26. But while he’s finished no worse than second in his four career races, he hasn’t faced much competition this year. He did beat out fellow Kentucky Derby contenders Decisive Moment and Twinspired at the Spiral, however.
Post Position: Animal Kingdom drew a bad beat with the No. 16 post position. Since the Kentucky Derby started in 1900, there have only been three winners to have come out of that position. That said, the last contender to win coming out of the No. 16 gate was Monarchos in 2001, and all three winners have come since 1995.
2011 Kentucky Derby Betting: What are Animal Kingdom’s Odds?
By Anthony Rome
ANIMAL KINGDOM
Animal Kingdom is one of the long shots to win this year’s Kentucky Derby, which will take place on Saturday at Churchill Downs.
Odds: When the odds opened earlier this week, Animal Kingdom was listed at +4000 according to online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com. And while his odds have improved to +3000, he remains one of the long shots along with Derby Kitten, Master Of Hounds, Santiva, Twinspired and Watch Me Go.
Race History: Animal Kingdom is coming off an impressive showing at the Spiral Stakes (Grade 3) on March 26. But while he’s finished no worse than second in his four career races, he hasn’t faced much competition this year. He did beat out fellow Kentucky Derby contenders Decisive Moment and Twinspired at the Spiral, however.
Post Position: Animal Kingdom drew a bad beat with the No. 16 post position. Since the Kentucky Derby started in 1900, there have only been three winners to have come out of that position. That said, the last contender to win coming out of the No. 16 gate was Monarchos in 2001, and all three winners have come since 1995.
KENTUCKY DERBY PICKS AND PREDICTIONS
Master Of Hounds a Long Shot to win 2011 Kentucky Derby
By Anthony Rome
MASTER OF HOUNDS
Master Of Hounds’ odds continue to drop the closer we get to Saturday’s Kentucky Derby.
Current Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Master Of Hounds’ odds at +1500 at the start of the week. But now that we’re just days away from the action at Churchill Downs, Master Of Hounds has now dropped to +3000 on the money line. Dialed In remains the favorite at +300, while Uncle Mo is +350 on the money line.
Race History: While Master Of Hounds hasn’t raced much in his career (this will be just his third outing since October of last year), he has raced against good competition. In his last race, he finished second at the UAE Derby (Grade 2) on March 26 behind Khawlah. Before that, he took sixth at the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (Grade 2) and third at the Racing Post Trophy (Grade 1) behind Casamento and Seville.
Post Position: While it could have been worse, Master Of Hounds got a bad draw on Wednesday when the post positions were announced. He drew the No. 11 gate, which has only produce three winners at the Kentucky Derby all-time. Of course, the No. 17 and No. 19 gates have produced zero winners so again: it could have been worse.
Outlook: Nobody really knows how Master Of Hounds will run on American dirt, which makes him one of the bigger wildcards this weekend. At +3000 on the money line, he might be worth a flier, although his post position draw hurts his value. (If you’re a believer in post position trends, that is.)
Master Of Hounds a Long Shot to win 2011 Kentucky Derby
By Anthony Rome
MASTER OF HOUNDS
Master Of Hounds’ odds continue to drop the closer we get to Saturday’s Kentucky Derby.
Current Odds: Oddsmakers from online sports book SBGGLOBAL.com listed Master Of Hounds’ odds at +1500 at the start of the week. But now that we’re just days away from the action at Churchill Downs, Master Of Hounds has now dropped to +3000 on the money line. Dialed In remains the favorite at +300, while Uncle Mo is +350 on the money line.
Race History: While Master Of Hounds hasn’t raced much in his career (this will be just his third outing since October of last year), he has raced against good competition. In his last race, he finished second at the UAE Derby (Grade 2) on March 26 behind Khawlah. Before that, he took sixth at the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (Grade 2) and third at the Racing Post Trophy (Grade 1) behind Casamento and Seville.
Post Position: While it could have been worse, Master Of Hounds got a bad draw on Wednesday when the post positions were announced. He drew the No. 11 gate, which has only produce three winners at the Kentucky Derby all-time. Of course, the No. 17 and No. 19 gates have produced zero winners so again: it could have been worse.
Outlook: Nobody really knows how Master Of Hounds will run on American dirt, which makes him one of the bigger wildcards this weekend. At +3000 on the money line, he might be worth a flier, although his post position draw hurts his value. (If you’re a believer in post position trends, that is.)
