The Derby Decimal Classifications: April 20

A by-the-numbers review of the latest news and developments on the Road to the 2020 Kentucky Derby.

5

The number of Kentucky Derby (G1) winners saddled by Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, one shy of the record held by Ben Jones.

Baffert’s quest for a sixth Derby victory is off to a sharp start, with stakes winners Authentic, Nadal, Eight Rings, Thousand Words, and Azul Coast joining the undefeated allowance winner Charlatan as part of the trainer’s deep and talented brigade.

9

The number of workouts posted by Baffert’s Eight Rings since he returned to serious training in mid-February. The 2019 American Pharoah (G1) winner recently shipped to Oaklawn Park, where he clocked 5 furlongs from the starting gate in a bullet :59 Friday.

The son of Empire Maker is targeting a return to action in Saturday’s $100,000 Bachelor S. at Oaklawn, a 6-furlong sprint that has attracted 24 nominees.

17

The number of 3-year-old males trainer Todd Pletcher has saddled to win maiden special weight races since the start of the year.

While Pletcher has yet to strike a major blow on the Road to the Kentucky Derby, the number of up-and-coming sophomores in his stable could give him a strong hand when the postponed Derby finally rolls around.

17

The number of years since Funny Cide became the first and only New York-bred to win the Kentucky Derby. His popular victory in 2003 elevated Sackatoga Stable and trainer Barclay Tagg to stardom, and the same team could return to the Derby in 2020, with Florida Derby (G1) winner Tiz the Law, another New York-bred.

99

The number of horses nominated to the May 2 Arkansas Derby (G1) at Oaklawn, pending late mail.

The only Road to the Kentucky Derby prep race remaining on the agenda, the 1 1/8-mile Arkansas Derby is expected to draw a full field and might be run in two divisions, if enough horses are entered.

138

The number of days until the Kentucky Derby, though it’s hard to be certain about anything these days.