You’ve come to the right place if you’re looking for some good Kentucky Derby picks. There are five horses in this race that are worth a look. These are the Epicenter, Zandon, Asmussen, and Taiba. Read on to find out why these four horses are worth considering. In this Kentucky Derby betting guide, you’ll find tips for making informed picks.
Epicenter
Assuming that Epicenter is the favorite for the Kentucky Derby picks, there are many reasons to back this horse. His previous wins include the Lecomte Stakes in January, the Louisiana Derby, and the Gun Runner Stakes. In the Louisiana Derby, Epicenter beat potential Derby horses in the first mile. After winning the Louisiana Derby, Epicenter landed in post three and was installed as the second choice at 7-2.
Zandon
If you’re looking for a solid Kentucky Derby pick, you should look no further than Zandon, a colt by Chad C. Brown. With his win at the Belmont last month, Zandon has shot to the top of the betting odds lists. The horse is bred in Kentucky and has proven consistent in his career, finishing twice in a row in second or third place. Despite this, Zandon’s late-running style may limit his chances early. Besides, Zandon breaks from the middle of a field of 20. Consequently, he’ll likely be too crowded to overcome Derby traffic.
Asmussen
The best way to bet on Asmussen is by avoiding the favorites. Asmussen has been working with horses for most of his life. His brother, Cash Asmussen, was a world-class rider in France for many years. And his parents are lifelong horse people who still get out to watch Steve succeed on the biggest stage. As a result, Asmussen is a Hall of Famer and is considered one of the most talented trainers in history.
Taiba
Taiba’s only race at Santa Anita last month was a solid effort. The horse’s BRIS Speed Rating of 110 was the second-best figure for a Derby prep behind Mo Donegal. Despite this relative inexperience, Taiba was rated a good juvenile but did not get much consideration for the Kentucky Derby until Zedan Stables transferred him to trainer Tim Yakteen. Today, Taiba is the third choice on the Derby odds, behind Justify and Messier.
Messier
If you’re looking for the best Kentucky Derby picks for this year’s race, Messier might be the horse for you. Unfortunately, while his pedigree contains Triple Crown-winning bloodlines, we can’t be sure if he has the stamina required for the race’s long distance. That said, Messier does have all the characteristics we need in a contender to win. So here’s a look at his pedigree and why he might be worth your Kentucky Derby picks.
Taiba’s trainer has yet to win a derby.
While Taiba has only two starts, he has a strong pedigree. The only other horse to break a maiden in the Kentucky Derby was Disposal in 1992, and horses with two starts were a rare breed for much of the race’s history. The trainer of Dialed In, a Grade 1 winner in 2011, has yet to win a Kentucky derby. However, he is confident Taiba will win the Kentucky Derby on Saturday.
Mo Donegal’s come-from-behind style
If you want to make money in the Kentucky Derby, you should consider Mo Donegal (+900), who won the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct and finished second in the Remsen Stakes last December. Pletcher has a proven track record in the Derby, with two wins and a second. Although Mo Donegal is a slow starter, he has one of the best closing speeds in the field, which could make a big difference down the stretch.
Keeping an open mind about Kentucky derby picks
While Kentucky Derby picks can be tough, it is possible to find solid value in betting on the race. Many pundits consider the Kentucky Derby a wide-open race, but the track and field have their fair share of vulnerabilities and strong contenders. To find the best Kentucky Derby picks, follow these steps. First, weigh the individual horses and matchups. Then, make your final pick after analyzing their past performance.
