One of the most best events on this year’s horse racing schedule is the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, which takes place Friday at Del Mar.
Known for showcasing future stars and a highly competitive betting landscape, the Juvenile attracts racing enthusiasts with a mix of star power and strong wagering opportunities. This year’s Juvenile lineup promises excitement, especially with a few favorites and many formidable challengers, creating a fascinating matchup for bettors and fans keeping an eye on the latest horse racing odds.
While California-based horses have a strong track record in this race, trainer Bob Baffert’s trio of entrants brings an extra layer of intrigue. Although Baffert’s three runners are highly capable, they’re unlikely to be the favorites this year. Instead, East Avenue, Chancer McPatrick, and Jonathan’s Way lead the odds, each bringing an undefeated record and a dominant performance in their final prep races.
Here’s a breakdown of the top contenders for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile, ranked from first to last based on their performances and potential for this high-stakes race:
Top Picks for the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile
- East Avenue
East Avenue has been impressive in his two starts, cementing his status as the one to beat with a dominant win in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Futurity. In his last race, he defeated a rival by over five lengths, showing his ability to control the race early and maintain his lead. The son of Medaglia d’Oro has the speed, stamina, and experience over the Juvenile distance, making him the top choice.
2. Jonathan’s Way
Jonathan’s Way showed remarkable maturity in his first two starts, displaying both speed and resilience. After a slow break in his maiden race, he recovered impressively and then won the Iroquois Stakes (G3) in his next start. With versatility and proven ability to pass other horses, Jonathan’s Way has a solid chance in a field with multiple frontrunners.
3. Gaming
Of Baffert’s runners, Gaming stands out as the most promising. He defeated his stablemates on the same track in the Del Mar Futurity (G1) and could show further improvement with the added distance. As the son of 2018 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile winner Game Winner, Gaming is bred for the challenge and has the versatility to adapt as the race unfolds.
4. Ferocious
Known for a powerful debut, Ferocious has yet to fully prove himself in subsequent races, finishing second in his last two starts. He has the right style to sit off the early pace and can benefit from his tactical speed in the Juvenile, making him a good option for exotic bets.
5. Chancer McPatrick
Although he is undefeated, Chancer McPatrick’s deep-closing style may be less effective on Del Mar’s track. While he has an impressive record in one-turn races, the shorter run to the first turn and multiple frontrunners could make it difficult for him to find his rhythm.
6. Citizen Bull
Citizen Bull’s success in the American Pharoah Stakes (G1) showed his ability to lead wire-to-wire, but this field presents more early speed, which could challenge his front-running style.
7. Shin Believe
An $800,000 purchase from Japan, Shin Believe is untested on American soil. While he was an impressive five-length winner in his debut, facing top competition in the Juvenile for only his second start could be a tall order.
8. Hill Road
A Kentucky-bred horse racing in Ireland, Hill Road’s first start on dirt makes him a wild card. While he’s bred for it, he has yet to prove his ability on dirt at this level, making this a tough spot.
9. Getaway Car
Getaway Car has struggled as distances have increased, and he’ll face a class test here. Although he brings early speed, his recent form suggests he may struggle against stronger closers.
10. Ecoro Azel
Coming from Japan, Ecoro Azel has struggled to compete at stakes level there and may face too great a challenge here in his U.S. debut.
Betting Insights
With strong frontrunners and high-caliber shippers, the Juvenile presents a unique opportunity for bettors. East Avenue and Jonathan’s Way top the field, yet the inclusion of solid contenders like Gaming and Chancer McPatrick ensures that even favorites may face surprises.
Bettors should consider both East Avenue’s consistency and Jonathan’s Way’s ability to adapt to different scenarios, especially in trifectas or superfectas where exotic plays could pay off. This year’s Juvenile not only spotlights future champions but also offers exciting betting prospects across a competitive field.
