Louisville, Ky. • Todd Pletcher is throwing numbers at the Kentucky Derby again. Bob Baffert is seeking a fifth victory and he's got the favorite, too. An old jinx could be disproved, and history would be written if Mendelssohn wears the garland of red roses.
The 20-horse field for Saturday's 144th Run for the Roses includes a handful of top contenders who have been consistent this spring.
Justify was the 7-2 favorite in early wagering Friday. Trained by Baffert, the Southern California colt, however, is green, with just three starts.
"We have a good enough horse that can win it, but it's a very competitive race," Baffert said.