Kentucky Derby Prep Races: Jeff Ruby Steaks Contenders

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Kentucky Derby Prep Races Odds and News

Breaking Down the Jeff Ruby Steaks: Derby Points on the Line at Turfway Park

The Grade 3, $777,777 Jeff Ruby Steaks at Turfway Park is one of the most crucial Kentucky Derby Prep Races, offering 100-50-25-15-10 qualifying points to the top five eligible finishers. This 1 1/8-mile event on Turfway’s Tapeta track has attracted a competitive field of 13, including multiple runners already gaining experience on the 2025 Kentucky Derby trail. 

With a mix of proven contenders and emerging talent, the race will play a key role in shaping the Kentucky Derby odds and influencing Kentucky Derby betting strategies.

Key Contenders in the Jeff Ruby Steaks

One of the top entrants is Poster, the morning-line favorite at 5-2. The Eoin Harty-trained colt won his first three career starts, including the Grade 2 Remsen at Aqueduct. He returned in February to finish third in the Sam F. Davis, earning 16 Kentucky Derby qualifying points. He has been training at Turfway Park, which could give him an edge on race day.

California Burrito, listed at 9-2, is another strong contender. The Tommy Drury trainee has thrived on Turfway’s Tapeta surface, winning the John Battaglia Memorial last month in front-running fashion. With 20 Derby points already secured, he could solidify his spot in the starting gate at Churchill Downs with another strong performance.

Baby Max enters at 5-1 after finishing second in the Battaglia Memorial. He has consistently been competitive at Turfway, winning the Leonatus Stakes earlier in the year. Trainer Kelsey Danner has opted to add blinkers, which could help him sit a stalking trip and pounce late.

Other Notable Entries

Charlie’s To Blame (6-1) enters the Jeff Ruby following his victory in the Kitten’s Joy at Gulfstream Park on the turf. Moreover, trained by Peter Eurton, this son of Blame has demonstrated versatility and, as a result, could be a sleeper pick.

Final Gambit (10-1), trained by Brad Cox, made an impressive late rally to win a February allowance at Turfway and could benefit from a fast pace up front.

Flying Mohawk (10-1) and Giocoso (20-1) are turf specialists trying Tapeta for the first time. Notably, Flying Mohawk is coming off an allowance win at Fair Grounds, whereas Giocoso finished third in the Iroquois Stakes last fall but later struggled in the Risen Star Stakes.

Innovator (15-1) finished third in the Lecomte Stakes on the 2025 Kentucky Derby trail but was a distant 12th in the Rebel Stakes. He’ll need to show significant improvement to compete in this field.

Maximum Promise (15-1) finished third in the Battaglia Memorial and, therefore, could be a factor if he progresses off that effort. Additionally, he has already earned 8 Derby points, which could strengthen his chances.

Other entrants include Calling Card (20-1), He’s Not Joking (20-1), and Curvino (20-1), each looking to step up in class.

Race Analysis and Betting Strategy

The Jeff Ruby Steaks features several early-speed horses, including California Burrito, Maximum Promise, and Flying Mohawk. This should set up well for closers like Poster, Baby Max, and Final Gambit, who could benefit from a fast pace.

Poster’s workouts at Turfway suggest he will handle the Tapeta surface well, making him a deserving favorite. However, Baby Max’s consistency and blinkers make him an intriguing betting option at 5-1. California Burrito’s proven success on this track makes him a logical win contender.

As the Derby trail heats up, be sure to visit our racebook for the latest odds, insights, and wagering options for the 2025 Kentucky Derby and beyond.