Medina Spirit sits in post 8 for Kentucky Derby 147

Bob Baffert will go for a record seventh win in the Kentucky Derby (G1) when he saddles Medina Spirit in Saturday’s Run for the Roses.

Medina Spirit drew post 8 during Tuesday’s draw at Churchill Downs.

“We’re here with a horse that’s top 10,” Baffert said from the barn area at Churchill Downs. “We usually come in here with a top five-type horse, but I would say he’s top 10. He shows up every time. Second to good horses, but he’s here, and if I don’t win I’m rooting for my California brothers.” 

Medina Spirit has prepped over the winter and spring for the Derby in California, winning Robert B. Lewis S. (G2), and finishing second in the aforementioned Santa Anita Derby, as well as the San Felipe S. (G2) and Sham S. (G3).

Owned by the Zedan Racing Stables, Medina Spirit has earned $315,200 and never finished worse than second in five lifetime starts. He is the only entrant of the 20 Derby starters who has four Beyer Speed Figures of 90 or better.

Baffert is currently tied with the late Ben Jones, who trained for Calumet Farm, with six Derby victories. Baffert won last year’s Derby, the first ever run in September, with eventual Horse of the Year Authentic, and his first in 1997 with Silver Charm. 

The Derby is race 12 on Saturday at 6:57 p.m. ET and will be seen live on NBC-TV.