Here's a breakdown of the stakes on the Kentucky Derby undercard. These are worthy races in their own right, and deserve more attention than they will likely get.
Humana Distaff: 7-Marley's Freedom looks tough in here. She's 7/5 on the morning line, which is no bargain, but this 7 furlong distance suits her to a tee. She's our pick to win.
Churchill Distaff Turf Mile: 9-Environs is the pick here. Her last race was sensational. 8-1 is an absolute gift here. We think her post-time price will be less, but if she's 8-1, bet her hard.
Churchill Downs Sprint: 8-Mitole is in incredibly good form. We think he finishes on top at 7/2.
American Turf: 3-Digital Age is a rapidly-improving 3-year-old who we think will win this. At 6-1, he's another horse worthy of a hefty win bet.
Pat Day Mile: We liked 10-Instagrand throughout the Derby prep season, but he faltered as the distances got longer. This one-turn mile is right up his alley. We'd be shocked if he doesn't win this.
Old Forester Turf Classic: We like two Chad Brown horses, 2-Raging Bull and 12-Bricks and Mortar, to run 1-2 in here. We'd give the edge to Bricks and Mortar, but it's hard to separate the two.