The Kentucky Derby is one of the most exciting horse racing events in the United States, where bettors, fans, and trainers eagerly watch their favorites compete. Recently, odds for the 2025 Derby have shifted, particularly for horses trained by Bob Baffert, following notable performances at Santa Anita. This article highlights the latest odds changes, key races, and horses to watch for the Run for the Roses.
Recent Odds Shifts at Caesars Sportsbook
The opening day of Santa Anita saw some surprises in the Derby futures market. Madaket Road, trained by Bob Baffert, impressed with a strong mid-pack rally to win a maiden race. This performance shortened his odds from 33-1 to 25-1. Meanwhile, San Saba, another Baffert-trained colt, finished third in the same race, leading to his odds drifting from 22-1 to 35-1.
Other horses also saw adjustments. Bullard, a Gun Runner colt with two wins under his belt, moved from 33-1 to 30-1. He’s eyeing a Grade 2 race soon. Journalism, another favorite with consistent performances, remains at 17-1, holding steady as the frontrunner.
Key Horses to Watch
Madaket Road (25-1)
Madaket Road’s recent win at Santa Anita has positioned him as a horse to watch. His ability to close strong could make him a serious contender in the Kentucky Derby.
San Saba (35-1)
Despite the hype, San Saba fell short, finishing third. His odds reflect this performance, but his pedigree as a son of Justify means he shouldn’t be counted out.
Bullard (30-1)
Trained by Michael McCarthy, Bullard is gaining momentum. He’s already a proven winner and could further solidify his standing with an impressive showing in the San Vicente Stakes.
Journalism (17-1)
Still the favorite, Journalism’s consistency keeps him in the top spot. However, history shows early favorites don’t always win the Derby.
Upcoming Derby Prep Races
This weekend, two key prep races—the Smarty Jones at Oaklawn and the Jerome at Aqueduct—will provide more clarity on the Derby picture. These races will award critical qualifying points, offering an opportunity for horses to strengthen their cases as Derby contenders.
Historical Insights
While being the early favorite may seem like an advantage, no January 1 favorite has won the Kentucky Derby since 2007 when Street Sense took the crown. This underscores the unpredictable nature of horse racing and why bettors often look for value picks.
The road to the Kentucky Derby is heating up, with odds shifting as horses show their potential. Madaket Road’s rise, San Saba’s stumble, and Bullard’s consistent form add excitement to the Derby trail. With key prep races on the horizon, more changes in the Derby landscape are expected. Stay tuned as these young stars work to secure their place in racing history.
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