Churchill Downs Race 12
13 - Nyquist
The champ has arrived. The Breeders' Cup Juvenile champion has proven he is the deserving favorite of the 2016 Kentucky Derby field. Many challengers have tried to take the crown, but all have failed, including the latest attempt by Mohaymen (lost by 8+ lengths) in the Florida Derby. Nyquist doesn't have the flashiest of figures, but he gets in done with heart. A horse doesn't go 7-for-7 unless they have the heart of a champion, this is something not measured by numbers. With so many deep closers in the 2016 Derby field it will pay off to be near the lead, and Nyquist has the solid tactical speed to sit the perfect trip. Love the 1-mile workout on April 29 by trainer Doug O'Neill. He knows how to win this race along with jockey Mario Gutierrez, as the same connections were victorious in 2012 with I'll Have Another. Nyquist has already handled today's contenders and should prove it again with a winning move around the turn to take the 2016 Run for the Roses.
11 - Exaggerator
Exaggerator has shown a powerful kick and has some of the highest figures in the field. Making him a must use for the exacta. He has already played second fiddle to Nyquist at Santa Anita, and that looks to be the same role here in the Kentucky Derby.
2 - Suddenbreakingnews
This gelding is ranked a notch below the top two, but should be making up a lot of ground in the lane. Suddenbreakingnews has only been out of the money once in his career, and should be included n the exotics at a very nice price.