Overview

• Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert and a Wood Memorial winner, was scratched from the Kentucky Derby due to a sensitive foot bruise, with plans to target the Preakness instead.
• Grande, trained by Todd Pletcher, was also scratched after veterinary concerns over a cracked heel, further reducing the field to 19 horses.
• Citizen Bull, last year’s Breeders’ Cup Juvenile champion, remains Baffert’s sole entry in the race, starting from the challenging No. 1 post position.
• Baeza, trained by John Shirreffs, moved into the Derby field as the sole alternate after Rodriguez’s withdrawal, starting from the 19th gate.
• The scratches highlight heightened equine welfare measures, as trainers and veterinarians prioritize the safety and health of the horses.