Senor Buscador injured, will miss Rebel Stakes

Senor Buscador, who won the Springboard Mile and was fifth most recently in the Risen Star Stakes, emerged from a recent workout in preparation for the March 13 Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn with what appears to be a minor injury and will be given time to recuperate, trainer Todd Fincher said Monday from Sam Houston, where Senor Buscador has been training.

Fincher said the issue is with Senor Buscador’s right front leg.

“We’re not 100 percent sure, he hasn’t had a full evaluation yet, but he wasn’t completely sound when he jogged and he palpated just a touch on that suspensory,” Fincher said. “You could do things to keep going, but it wouldn’t be the right decision for the horse’s sake, or anyone else’s. He’s about to tear his stall down. But he’s just not right. You have to do the right thing. It’ll pay off in the long run.”

:: KENTUCKY DERBY 2021: Derby Watch, point standings, prep schedule, news, and more

Senor Buscador will be sent to Elgin Veterinary Hospital in Elgin, Texas, in coming days for a full workup by Dr. Tommy Hays, Fincher said.

Senor Buscador had been a member of Daily Racing Form’s Derby Watch top 20.

The news of his injury was first reported by horseracing.net.