Jarrod Horak’s Final “Exceptional Eleven” Kentucky Derby 2021 Rankings (4-30-21)
#1 – Essential Quality – 2yo champ versatile and unbeaten. He likely scores if he handles 10f.
#2 – Hot Rod Charlie – Blinkers on and two turns on dirt made all the difference.
#3 – Known Agenda – Improved positional speed with blinkers. Tough luck at draw.
#4 – Rock Your World – Skipped over fast dirt in SA Derby (G1). Unraced 2yo lacks seasoning.
#5 – Medina Spirit – Baffert’s lone representative has a big heart and early-pressing versatility.
#6 – Highly Motivated – Fast enough to win on paper but might not want to go 10f.
# 7 Mandaloun – Was rock solid before inexplicable LA Derby (G2) debacle.
# 8 – Midnight Bourbon – Very consistent but is just 1-for-5 in stakes races.
#9 – O Besos – LA Derby show finisher getting better. Look for him late.
#10 – Sainthood – Probably best in Jeff Ruby Steaks (G3). Inexperience a concern.
# 11 – Dynamic One – Maiden winner almost took down Wood. Like his sire.
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