Last year's Kentucky Derby had an exciting conclusion, with the first three-horse photo finish since 1947. However, what many are hoping to see in the 2025 Kentucky Derby that they didn't get a year ago is raw speed.

Journalism enters this year's race as the favorite, thanks in part to a four-race win streak, including an April 5 victory in the Santa Anita Derby, a come-from-behind victory that saw him make the necessary adjustments to secure the momentum-sustaining win.

Legendary trainer Bob Baffert ‘s return to the Kentucky Derby tops the list. Back at Churchill Downs for the first time in three years following his suspension due to a failed post-race drug test involving his horse, Medina Spirit, after the 2021 Kentucky Derby, Baffert returns with multiple entries ( Citizen Bull, Madaket Road, Rodriguez ).