Krause's 2017 Kentucky Derby Picks

Anyone's guess is as good as mine regarding the Kentucky Derby winner this year

Always Dreaming

This is a wide-open Kentucky Derby - and I really have no clear favorites unlike the past few years. Probably the best trainer in the country is Todd Pletcher (and he is something like 1-45 in the Derby with his entries over the years). 

So my advice is to go with the best trainer (Pletcher) and sit back and enjoy the Derby. He has three horses entered - #20 Patch (50-1 odds) has one eye and is starting (thankfully) on the far outside - this entry has zero chance, so save your money. Do you get it? Patch, the one-eyed horse!

Tapwrit

My favorite is #5 Always Dreaming at 5-1 odds. Trained by Todd Pletcher, this horse won the Florida Derby and can run the distance (1 1/4 mile).  Supposedly he has not been steady at Churchill Downs this week, but I like the post position. Great jockey, John Velazquez, is in the saddle and he's Kentucky bred - he’s my pick.  

On the other hand, #16 Tapwrit, is 20-1 and won the Tampa Derby. He's trained well this week and is a decent long-shot. This horse should be included in your exotic bets. A really good jockey, Jose Ortiz, is up and this horse will come from behind. Could be a fun bet at 20-1, with a strong payout.



Good luck!