Field once again favored in Kentucky Derby Future Wager

Pool 4 in the 2023 Kentucky Derby Future Wager closed Sunday evening following the customary three-day run with the mutuel field once again a clear-cut favorite among 40 wagering options.

The field, the 40th or “all others” option, was a 2-1 choice over reigning divisional champion Forte (8-1) and the only filly in the lineup, Hoosier Philly (11-1), following the customary three-day window of betting. Then came Tapit Trice (15-1), Instant Coffee (22-1), Victory Formation (23-1), and Geaux Rocket Ride (25-1). Thirteen of the 39 individual interests closed at 90-1 or higher.

:: KENTUCKY DERBY 2023: Derby Watch, point standings, prep schedule, news, and more

One major factor in strong wagering support for the field is the fact that all Bob Baffert trainees, including Arabian Knight, the top-ranked 3-year-old in Daily Racing Form's Derby Watch top 20, were assimilated into that group. Baffert is suspended by Churchill Downs through the 149th Derby on May 6. The field also was a decisive favorite in the three previous pools.

Combined handle (win and exacta) in Pool 3 was $340,880. The lowest $2 exacta combination was the field over Forte (40-13), worth $36.38.

Two more pools are still ahead. Pool 5 (March 10-12) will coincide with a Kentucky Oaks pool.

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