In a significant turn of events leading up to the 151st running of the Kentucky Derby, Rodriguez, the GII Wood Memorial Stakes winner and a promising contender trained by Bob Baffert, has been scratched from the race due to a sensitive foot bruise. The announcement came from co-owner Tom Ryan via a post on X on May 1, 2025, stating, "Out of an abundance of caution, we have made a very tough decision to scratch our Derby horse, Rodriguez. He has a small but slightly sensitive foot bruise that will need a few more days. Therefore, we are resetting our plans and will target him for the Preakness." This decision has left fans and bettors in a state of surprise as they prepare for the iconic race scheduled for Saturday.
Rodriguez's withdrawal opens the door for Baeza, who will now step into the spotlight as he joins the field for the prestigious event. Baeza, trained by John Shirreffs, is an intriguing addition to the Derby lineup, especially considering his recent performance. The horse finished second behind the Kentucky Derby favorite Journalism in the Grade 1 Santa Anita Derby last month, showcasing his potential as a strong competitor. Despite not initially qualifying for the Derby due to the competitive nature of the Santa Anita field, Baeza has been on standby at Churchill Downs, eagerly awaiting an opportunity like this.
As the clock ticks down to the Derby, Baeza's odds are set at 12-1 on the morning line, and he will be ridden by jockey Flavien Prat. This combination could prove to be a formidable force as they aim to make a mark in the first leg of the Triple Crown. The excitement surrounding Baeza's entry has sparked interest among fans and bettors alike, with many eager to see how he fares against the elite field of thoroughbreds.
The Kentucky Derby is renowned for its rich history and tradition, and this year promises to be no different. With Rodriguez out of the race, the dynamics of the competition shift dramatically, adding an element of unpredictability to the event. Fans will be keenly watching how Baeza performs, especially given his impressive showing at Santa Anita.
Tom Ryan's announcement highlights the careful consideration that goes into preparing a horse for such a high-stakes race. The decision to prioritize Rodriguez's health over immediate competition reflects a commitment to the horse's long-term well-being. The Preakness Stakes, set to take place later this month, now becomes the new target for Rodriguez, allowing him time to recover and potentially return to form.
As the Derby approaches, the anticipation is palpable. The race will feature a diverse field of contenders, each vying for the coveted title and a chance to make history. With the scratch of Rodriguez, all eyes will be on Baeza and the other horses as they prepare for the challenge ahead.
The stakes are high, and the excitement is building as fans gear up for the Run for the Roses. The Kentucky Derby is not just a race; it's an event steeped in tradition, drawing spectators from across the nation and around the world. This year's edition promises to deliver thrilling moments and unforgettable performances.
As the final preparations unfold, the racing community remains hopeful for an exhilarating race day. With the new developments surrounding Rodriguez and Baeza, the narrative of the Derby continues to evolve, keeping fans on the edge of their seats. The outcome remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the Kentucky Derby will showcase the best of horse racing, with stories of triumph, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness.
As we approach the scratch time of 9 a.m. on Friday morning, the excitement only intensifies. Will Baeza rise to the occasion and seize this unexpected opportunity? Or will another contender steal the spotlight? Only time will tell as the horses prepare to thunder down the track at Churchill Downs.
In conclusion, the Kentucky Derby is set to be an unforgettable spectacle, with Baeza now a key player in the unfolding drama. Fans and bettors alike will be watching closely, eager to see how this twist in the tale impacts the race. With Rodriguez targeting the Preakness, the stage is set for a thrilling showdown this Saturday.
