Baeza Primed for Pennsylvania Derby Upset as He Seeks First Grade 1 Win
PARX RACING, Bensalem, PA – Angel Castillo Baeza is the morning-line favourite to capture Saturday’s $1 million Pennsylvania Derby at Parx Racing, marking a pivotal moment in the young jockey’s career as he aims for his first Grade 1 victory. The 24-year-old rider will pilot Dry Powder,coming off a strong second-place finish in the Alabama Stakes and a victory in the Cathryn sophia,the local prep race for the Pennsylvania Derby.
The Pennsylvania Derby, a cornerstone of the Pennsylvania racing calendar, draws national attention and offers a substantial purse, attracting top 3-year-old hopefuls.A win for Baeza would not only elevate his profile within the highly competitive jockey colony but also solidify Dry Powder’s position as a leading contender in the division. The 1 1/8-mile race is a key stepping stone for horses eyeing the Breeders’ Cup Classic later this fall.
Dry Powder’s trainer, Saffie Joseph Jr., believes the filly is primed for a strong showing. “She’s been training well and seems to be thriving,” Joseph said. “The Cathryn Sophia win showed she handles this track, and we’re optimistic about her chances.”
Several other contenders pose a challenge to Baeza and Dry Powder. La Cara, trained by Mark Casse, will attempt to rebound from a fourth-place finish in the Alabama, where she was bested by stablemate Nitrogen.Dylan Davis is back in the saddle for La Cara, breaking from post position 2. Good Cheer, a Kentucky Oaks alum, seeks a return to form after recent finishes of fifth in the Acorn and second in the Alabama, with Luis Saez retaining the mount from post 7.
Indy Bay, fresh off a Charles Town Oaks victory, adds an element of unpredictability, while Clicquot, Not Too Late, and Ourdaydreaminggirl complete the field. post time for the Pennsylvania Derby is scheduled for approximately 5:45 PM ET.
