The best value question did not generate much interest although it was comforting to hear the TGJB played the same 3 horses as I did in the first Derby future pool. I just wish we had had such similar opinions on last year's Derby. I needed at least a second place finish out of Perfect Drift...

Maybe this next question will stimulate more interest and opinions.

Which horses are you most concerned about winning that did not offer any value in the first pool? My top 3 are:

Empire Maker - The hype made him unplayable but I can see the reason for it. Frankel, Bailey, Juddmonte, Unbridled, and the best broodmare on the planet all in one package. Not to mention that he is fast and his line looks very explosive. He looks a lot like Fusaichi Pegasus and a Derby win would certainly not be a shock.

Badge Of Silver - I am guessing he ran a negative fig in his last and his first 3 have been about as impressive as can be. His breeding is not that bad and he may be a genuine freak ala Spend A Buck or Seattle Slew. However, I still have a hard time believing that a horse that wins for fun in April of its 2 year old year and is then on the shelf until 3 is going to end up winnning the Derby. I will be betting against this guy from here on out and I may end up tearing up a lot of tickets in the process.

Minister's Wildcat - Trained by Niel Drysdale and a half-brother to War Chant. In fact, looks like a War Chant clone to this point. Also has a potentially explosive line. Not quite as scary as the first two but a legitimate threat to win the roses.

Consolation prize: Field - The winner may come from there but I just don't understand the allure of 2-1 odds.

Any other opinions?

Chris