As the Kentucky Derby approaches, Bob Baffert has a notable lineup of horses to keep an eye on. For a trainer of his caliber, it’s typical to evaluate several horses to determine which one can outperform the others, providing an early glimpse into the potential outcomes of the opening leg of the American Triple Crown. As the Arkansas Derby approaches, the horse racing community is focused intently on one particular horse. And who might that be? It’s Cornucopian.
The three-year-old colt has made just one appearance on the track, securing a victory in his debut race. Nevertheless, the entry of the horse into the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby caught many fans off guard, leading to speculation that Baffert may have observed something noteworthy during the horse’s workouts. As the countdown to the event reaches its final hours, a racing analyst has shared insights reflecting the sentiments of the horse racing community regarding Bob Baffert’s Cornucopian. What is that?
On X, Matthew DeSantis noted the recent surge of social media activity surrounding the horse, offering his opinion: “The CA invader, Cornucopian, for Bob Baffert strutting his stuff at @OaklawnRacing ahead of the Arkansas Derby. Can he win it? The comments to Matt’s post says it all. One says Sandman tracks him down and another claims the horse will win the Triple Crown.”
DeSantis responded to track announcer Matt Dinerman, who noted, “CORNUCOPIAN dappled out in the infield paddock schooling for Saturday’s Arkansas Derby. He’s the 7-5 morning line favorite off a dominant maiden win sprinting on Rebel Day for So Cal based Bob Baffert.” There’s a lot of excitement surrounding Cornucopian, and it’s easy to see why.
The upcoming race he is set to participate in will grant him 100 points on the path to the Kentucky Derby. This development is vital for both the horse and Baffert, as it positions Cornucopian within the top three in the current standings. Nevertheless, the community holds a rather varied view on the horse.
The CA invader, Cornucopian, for Bob Baffert strutting his stuff at @OaklawnRacing ahead of the Arkansas Derby. Can he win it?
The comments to Matt’s post says it all. One says Sandman tracks him down and another claims the horse will win the Triple Crown. #HorseRacingTips https://t.co/IWqlSVmYH6
— Matthew DeSantis (@failedtomenace) March 27, 2025
Opinions are divided on the three-year-old colt; while some anticipate he could become a significant contender for Baffert, others remain unconvinced of his potential. Have you heard that the trainer has released an important update regarding his two horses competing in the Road to Kentucky Derby?
Bob Baffert is expecting a lot from them
Recently, Bob Baffert shared his perspectives on two of his horses. Who are these animals? Barnes and Rodriguez are the individuals in question. The trainer commented on Barnes, stating, “I was trying something different with Barnes. I tried him without the blinkers. He didn’t like it. He’s going to be nominated everywhere. Next week’s work will decide everything.”
Blinkers are tools used on horses to limit their peripheral vision, allowing them to focus more effectively during races. Nonetheless, when Baffert opted to test the waters by eliminating them, Barnes responded unfavorably to the alteration. Furthermore, Barnes found himself outshined by Rodriguez, a rival he had previously defeated by more than nine lengths during the Grade 2 San Felipe Stakes on March 1, where he claimed second place.
Now, offering an update on Rodriguez, the 72-year-old remarked, “For some reason, he just lost his composure last time. We’re looking for something out of town with him, Wood or Blue Grass.” Baffert is considering sending Rodriguez to compete in either the Wood Memorial Stakes or the Blue Grass Stakes, both of which are important preparatory races for the Kentucky Derby. Only time will reveal what the future holds for these two horses.
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