The 2025 Kentucky Derby is quickly approaching, with only 11 weeks left until the race at Churchill Downs on May 3. On Friday, betting for Pool 4 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager commenced, featuring 39 horses and an additional option for all other 3-year-olds not included. The betting closes on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET.

Top Contenders

1. River Thames (25-1)
This Todd Pletcher horse is currently undefeated in two races and has a Beyer Speed Figure of 94. He is expected to improve in his next start at the Fountain of Youth on March 1, with odds rising to over 60-1.

2. Rodriguez (20-1)
Trainer Bob Baffert’s top value horse, Rodriguez has already shown promise, running a Beyer Speed Figure of 100. His last race saw him finish behind stablemate Citizen Bull, but he is anticipated to improve.

3. Patch Adams (30-1)
This Brad Cox horse had a Beyer Speed Figure of 98 last year and is also seen as a potential standout despite a recent fourth-place finish in the Southwest Stakes.

4. Journalism (20-1)
After recovering from a minor setback, Journalism is expected to run in the San Felipe Stakes on March 1. He is yet to hit his prime, making him a horse to watch.

5. East Avenue (15-1)
While the favorite for the Risen Star Stakes, East Avenue’s odds could benefit bettors if he loses this race, prompting prices to drop. Trainer Brendan Walsh aims for bigger things beyond this race.

Odds Overview

Horse	Odds
Barnes	8-1
Citizen Bull	6-1
River Thames	25-1
Rodriguez	20-1
Patch Adams	30-1
Journalism	20-1
East Avenue	15-1

For further details on betting options and predictions regarding this year’s Derby, visit the provided links.