The 2025 Kentucky Derby is just around the corner, with 19 horses set to race at Churchill Downs at 6:57 p.m. ET on Saturday. Recent developments have seen two horses scratch from the lineup: Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert, who was listed at 12-1, and Grande at 20-1. Alternate Baeza was added at 12-1, bringing the lineup to one shy of maximum capacity.

Before placing any bets, consider insights from Gene Menez, a veteran horse racing analyst with a proven track record. Menez is particularly skeptical about Sandman (6-1), despite his recent win at the Arkansas Derby. Menez suggests this horse’s chances may not hold up, citing a ‘dangerous proposition’ for closers like him who rely on a fast pace.

Conversely, Menez is optimistic about Burnham Square (12-1), the Blue Grass Stakes winner aiming to break a lengthy drought for that race in Kentucky. Burnham Square’s approach of patiently waiting before pushing ahead is complemented by his experience at Churchill Downs, likely giving him a tactical advantage.

For full analysis and betting strategies, be sure to check Menez’s expert picks at SportsLine.

Top Predictions for the 2025 Kentucky Derby

Menez has identified several key contenders and shares valuable betting advice, encouraging would-be bettors to also take a look at the following odds and positions for horses entering the race:

Post	Horse	Odds	Projection
1	Citizen Bull	20-1	SEE PICKS
2	Neoequos	30-1	SEE PICKS
3	Final Gambit	30-1	SEE PICKS
4	Rodriguez	12-1	Scratched
5	American Promise	30-1	SEE PICKS
6	Admire Daytona	30-1	SEE PICKS
7	Luxor Cafe	15-1	SEE PICKS
8	Journalism	3-1	SEE PICKS
19	Chunk of Gold	30-1	SEE PICKS