The 151st running of the Kentucky Derby takes place Saturday, May 3, 2025, at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky. This year’s race features a full 20-horse field with one alternate and is the first leg of the Triple Crown. Post time is set for 6:57 p.m. ET.
Journalism enters as the 3-1 morning-line favorite. He is undefeated in his last four races and starts from post 8. The field also includes Sandman (6-1), Sovereignty (5-1), and longshots like Publisher and Final Gambit. Sign up with WagerHome to get in on all the Kentucky Derby betting action.
JOURNALISM Preview – Can the Favorite Handle the Traffic?
Journalism has won five of six career starts, with his only loss coming in his debut. He comes off a win in the Santa Anita Derby by three-quarters of a length. He’s known for his speed and steady pace but has never raced outside of California or against a field this large.
He drew post 8, a spot with a solid record of producing winners. His stalking style could be tested in this 20-horse field with several others pushing for early position. A clean break and trip will be key if Journalism is to live up to the odds.
Journalism has faced smaller fields and lighter pace scenarios. In this race, he’ll be surrounded early and need to manage positioning while preserving energy. Bettors should watch how he handles that early challenge before committing too heavily to a win ticket.
SANDMAN Preview – Strong Closer Looks to Time It Right
Sandman comes in at 6-1 after winning the Arkansas Derby. He’s a closer and has experience coming from behind in big races. However, he drew post 17, which can be a tough spot for horses with his style.
His sire Tapit has a great record in the Belmont Stakes but no Kentucky Derby winners. That may matter for bettors looking at pedigree trends. Sandman will need a fast early pace to set up his late run.
There are concerns about how traffic and pace pressure will affect him. If he gets stuck wide or behind tiring horses, it will be hard to gain ground. Still, his late speed and track record make him one of the best threats to the favorite.
PPH Betting Prediction
Journalism has the most wins and best recent form, but this field is full of variables. The early pace is expected to be fast with several front runners. That could open the door for closers like Burnham Square (12-1) or Sovereignty (5-1) to rally late and pull the upset. Burnham Square won the Blue Grass Stakes and is peaking at the right time.
If Journalism gets a clean trip, he’s still the most likely winner. But horses like Sandman and Burnham Square are live alternatives with better value. Publisher and Tiztastic also offer upside, especially with Asmussen looking to finally get his first Derby win. WagerHome offers tools and odds to help you place your Derby bets. Become a PPH bookie today and take action on all the Triple Crown races.
Pick: Burnham Square to Win at 12-1
