Lexington Stakes Last Chance for Some Kentucky Derby Hopefuls

[I Heart Gambling Online]

With the Kentucky Derby just two weeks away, several talented sophomores remain outside the 20 horse limit, anxious to crash in on racing's biggest party. Saturday's $325,000 Lexington Stakes at Keeneland offers a final opportunity for some of the fringe players to earn themselves a ticket to Louisville.

Eight sophomores look probable for the Gr. 2 Lexington. Heading the list is Tampa Bay Derby runner-up Atoned, who after a fourth place finish in the Illinois Derby needs a one-two finish on Saturday to earn a Derby spot. Atoned posted a sharp workout over Keeneland's Polytrack on the weekend.

Tomcito, a multiple group winner in Peru, finished a distant third behind Big Brown in the Florida Derby but has worked sensationally since and needs at least a third-place finish in the Lexington to advance. Atoned's stable mate Behindthebar, also desperate for a strong showing, comes into the race off a dominating allowance win at Santa Anita and has shown a preference for synthetic surfaces, according to his trainer Todd Pletcher.

Completing the contentious field is Salute the Sarge who is in the top 20, Big Glen, winner of the Rushaway Stakes, Racecar Rhapsody, Red Sandy and Samba.

After this weekend's Lexington Stakes, there is only one opportunity remaining for Derby hopefuls to increase their graded earnings. Scheduled just a week before the 10 furlong main event, Aqueduct's Gr. 3 Withers Stakes at eight furlongs is unlikely to draw any potential Derby starters.

Bet on the Lexington Stakes at Bodog Racebook!

- Bodog Beat