Grande, Rodriguez Out; Baffert, Baeza In Derby

The 151st Kentucky Derby field changed after both Grande and Rodriguez were scratched due to foot injuries. Grande’s withdrawal means trainer Todd Pletcher and owner Mike Repole will not have a Derby starter for the first time in 21 years. Rodriguez’s exit leaves Bob Baffert, back from a three-year suspension, with only Citizen Bull aiming for a record seventh Derby win. Baeza, Santa Anita Derby runner-up, entered the race from the also-eligible list and will start from post 20, continuing a streak of Derby appearances by offspring of his dam, PUCA. Post positions for all remaining horses shifted due to the scratches. The Derby is scheduled for Saturday, May 3, at Churchill Downs and will be broadcast on NBC and Peacock.