Mucciolo's Top Eight Kentucky Derby Prospects for Pool 3

Pool 3 of the Kentucky Derby Future Wager (KDFW) will run through Sunday, Jan. 22, at 6 p.m. (ET). This future wager offers 40 separate betting options, with 38 individual entrants, as well as one for "all other males," and an additional one for "all other fillies."

While we are many months and numerous prep races away from solidifying a field for the 2023 Run for the Roses, it is obviously never too early to begin Derby dreaming. Below is an especially early list of my top contenders, which is subject to change multiple times leading up to May 6.

1 - SIGNATOR – Shug McGaughey pupil has to get a whole lot faster over the next few months, but I like a lot of things about the $1.7 million purchase. The colt figures to thrive as the distances increase.

2 - LOGGINS – Breeders’ Futurity (G1) second has a world of room for improvement after giving a fine impression of himself in two juvenile outings last campaign for Brad Cox.

3 - EXTRA ANEJO – Winchell colorbearer couldn’t have looked much better in his debut waltz at Keeneland, and the fleet colt is bred to run all day on his female side. He’s among the most exciting prospects in the entire crop.

4 - FORTE – Soon-to-be champion has a fine foundation under him for Todd Pletcher, and the Violence colt will be formidable throughout the spring as the early favorite.

5 - BANISHING – Godolphin homebred graduated in style in December and has a very bright future for conditioner Brendan Walsh. 

6 - CORONA BOLT – Cox pupil has displayed considerable talent from two sprint races and could be any kind if he can carry his speed a route of ground.

7 - VERIFYING – Another from the loaded Cox shedrow kicked off 2023 with a powerful allowance triumph at Oaklawn Park. His next race, when facing stakes foes, will tell us a lot about his future.

8 - HOOSIER PHILLY – Tom Amoss-trained filly was a dominant juvenile, and her connections have entertained putting her on the Derby trail this season.