Kentucky Derby 2025: After minor setback, Journalism back on track

Journalism’s splashy arrival as a leading California 3-year-old hit a setback after his impressive win Dec. 14 in the Grade 2 Los Alamitos Futurity. But if a Derby candidate must have a setback, there is no better time than December or January.

“He got a temp not long after he ran, from a vaccination,” trainer Michael McCarthy said. “Just decided to let him get over it himself. It actually might have been better. Instead of rushing to make this spot, or [that spot], it worked out for the best. He looks fantastic. I mean, he looks really well.”

:: KENTUCKY DERBY 2025: Point standings, prep schedule, news, and more

Workout videos of Journalism support McCarthy. The bay colt resumed works Jan. 23 and is penciled in for the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes on March 1 at Santa Anita. Journalism, sired by Curlin and produced by graded stakes winner Mopotism, has won 2 of 3 and acts like the longer, the better. His stablemate, Grade 3 sprint winner Bullard, is expected to ship to Oaklawn Park for his first route race Feb. 22 in the Grade 2 Rebel Stakes.

:: Want to learn more about handicapping and wagering? Check out DRF's Handicapping 101 and Wagering 101 pages.