How to bet the 2022 Indiana Derby

A total of 10 three-year-olds will go 1 1/16 miles at Horseshoe Indianapolis in Saturday’s $300,000 Indiana Derby (G3). The finale on the signature day of racing at the meeting lacks a clear standout and could present a fine betting opportunity.

#4 King Ottoman (5-1) broke his maiden with a game score in the Texas Derby last time out, and I think that the son of Curlin is just getting started. The gray has improved his Brisnet Speed figure in each lifetime try to date and toppled a nice field at Lone Star last time like a seasoned veteran.

The Three Chimneys homebred has posted four good morning drills since his latest venture, and I expect the colt to be super tough in the stretch after stalking the tempo from midpack early on. Marcelino Pedroza, Jr. will be in the stirrups.

#8 Actuator (7-2) tried dirt for the first time most recently and passed the surface test with flying colors. By Bodemeister, the bargain $2,200 purchase drew off like a good thing at Churchill Downs last time out and is aggressively placed in this spot, which I view as a positive. The Mike McCarthy trainee proved his last outing was no fluke after blitzing a five-furlong bullet beneath the Twin Spires last weekend. James Graham retains the mount.

Rebel S. (G2) victor #9 Un Ojo (6-1) might not possess an ideal win profile as a deep closer, but the Laoban gelding is too talented to dismiss in this spot. The New York-bred dark bay has posted some fine results against top competition, and a top-three finish would be of no surprise on Saturday. David Cohen will guide the Robertino Diodoro trainee.

Brad Cox’s #7 Best Actor (4-1) is two-for-two lifetime and could be any kind going forward for a top barn. The Flatter colt has a lot of appeal with expected improvement on Saturday. Grade 1 star #6 Rattle N Roll (5-2) and value exotics play #3 Mowins (15-1) will also make the ticket.

Indiana Derby Wagers

• 50-cent superfecta: 4 with 3, 6, 7, 8, 9 with 3, 6, 7, 8, 9 with 3, 6, 7, 8, 9 ($30)
• 50-cent superfecta: 4, 8 with 4, 8 with 3, 6, 7, 9 with all ($28)