Todd Pletcher discusses other horses in the Kentucky Derby

LOUISVILLE, Ky--Trainer Todd Pletcher has a good shot to win the Kentucky Derby with his undefeated colt Gemologist but he would rather talk about other horses.

“I think Union Rags is still the horse to beat,” said Pletcher. “He had a legitimate excuse last time. He was very impressive in the Fountain of Youth and he’s run well over this track.”

Union Rags’ one race at Churchill Downs was a second in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile. Meanwhile, Pletcher’s horse has won twice over the Churchill Downs surface.

“History tells us that you can’t throw anyone out,” Pletcher said. “There have been some winners the past few years that have been way down on everyone’s depth charts.”

Pletcher has a second horse in the Derby named El Padrino, who was a winner in the Risen Star at Fair Grounds. Rafael Bejarano will ride El Padrino for the first time Saturday. Javier Castellano, who used to ride Union Rags, will be aboard Gemologist.

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