Citizen Bull, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile champion and morning-line favorite, leads Bob Baffert’s trio in the Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis Stakes at Santa Anita. With Derby qualifying points on the line, he aims to solidify his status as a top Kentucky Derby contender.
The journey to the Kentucky Derby gains momentum this weekend with crucial prep races that could shape the field for Churchill Downs. Several high-stakes events at Santa Anita, Gulfstream Park, and Aqueduct will provide valuable Kentucky Derby qualifying points and offer insights for bettors fine-tuning their Derby strategies.
Robert B. Lewis Stakes: Baffert’s Stronghold
The Grade 3 Robert B. Lewis Stakes at Santa Anita has a legacy of producing top contenders, including past Derby winners. Bob Baffert, a dominant force in this race, saddles three of the five entrants.
Leading the charge is Citizen Bull, the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile champion and morning-line favorite. Stablemates Rodríguez and Madaket Road, both promising prospects, add depth to Baffert’s contingent. Clock Tower, transitioning from turf to dirt, and longshot Valentines Candy round out the field. With 20-10-6-4-2 Derby qualifying points at stake, the outcome will be pivotal in shaping Derby odds.
Holy Bull Stakes: Clash of Rising Stars
At Gulfstream Park, the Grade 3 Holy Bull Stakes showcases a field of talented three-year-olds seeking to establish themselves on the Derby trail. Burnham Square, fresh off a dominant maiden win, headlines the lineup alongside Brad Cox’s Tappan Street, an impressive debut winner. Other key contenders include Guns Loaded, winner of the Mucho Macho Man Stakes, and seasoned competitor Ferocious. The race’s 1 1/16-mile distance and 20-10-6-4-2 points structure make it a crucial stepping stone toward the Kentucky Derby.
Withers Stakes: Captain Cook’s Test
The Withers Stakes at Aqueduct has become a key prep race since its winter shift in 2012. Captain Cook, a $410,000 acquisition, enters off a commanding maiden victory and faces stiff competition from Mo Quality, Omaha Omaha, and Uncle Jim. With Derby points on the line, this race is essential for shaping the contenders’ trajectory.
Other Stakes to Watch
Several other races promise excitement beyond the Derby preps:
- Santa Monica Stakes (G2): Kopion and Splendora renew their rivalry at Santa Anita, with Baffert’s Richi and Hope Road adding depth.
- Thunder Road Stakes (G3): Turf specialist Seal Team aims for a breakthrough victory at Santa Anita.
- Forward Gal Stakes (G3): Stunner leads this Kentucky Oaks prep, facing Rojo Rita and My Denysse at Gulfstream.
- Tampa Bay Stakes (G3): Paros, on a five-race winning streak, makes his graded stakes debut.
- Megahertz Stakes (G3): Big Hug steps up in class against Liguria and Sareeha in a competitive turf field.
With Derby hopefuls looking to solidify their credentials, this weekend’s action is set to deliver thrilling performances and reshape the Kentucky Derby picture.
