Players Podcast Kentucky Derby Prep Recap w PTF/Nick Tammaro presented by TwinSpires.com
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The In The Money Players Podcast delivers a comprehensive recap of the Kentucky Derby prep races leading up to the 2026 Derby, featuring insights from Nick Tamaro. The episode covers the Santa Anita Derby, where Albus won in a surprising upset with a strong late run, though both hosts express skepticism about his relevance in the Derby due to weak speed figures and lack of standout form. The Bluegrass Stakes at Keeneland is highlighted as a breakout performance by Further Ado, who won by 11 lengths in a dominant fashion, sparking debate about whether he will 'bounce' or remain a top contender. The Tampa Derby is also discussed, with praise for Brad Cox’s two strong second-place finishes and the emerging dominance of his stable. A major focus is the jockey decision between Irad Ortiz Jr. and Flavian Pratt, who must choose between riding Further Ado or Renegade, with implications for the Derby odds. The hosts anticipate that this decision will heavily influence market dynamics, possibly tilting favoritism toward one horse. The episode ends with excitement building for the upcoming Derby, emphasizing the depth and unpredictability of the field.
Further Ado’s 11-length Bluegrass Stakes win signals elite form, but concerns about 'bounce' are overblown given his versatile style and ample time before the Derby.
Irad Ortiz Jr.'s jockey decision between Further Ado and Renegade will significantly impact Derby odds and market sentiment.
Brad Cox’s ability to develop top-tier 3-year-olds is becoming a defining narrative in the 2026 Derby race.
The Tampa Derby confirmed the strength of Brad Cox’s two top contenders, reinforcing his growing influence in the prep season.
The Derby betting market will likely overvalue long shots due to liquidity and public enthusiasm, creating value opportunities.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Kentucky Derby Prep Season Kickoff
The episode opens with a sponsorship plug for the Kentucky Thoroughbred Development Fund and a preview of the upcoming Derby content. Host Peter Thomas Fornatal welcomes Nick Tamaro to discuss the latest prep races.
Santa Anita Derby Recap: Albus and the Lack of Headlines
“I would highly doubt it. I'll tell you what was one of the surprises. There was a few things to me that were surprising about it. multiple horses made off the pace moves in here and didn't really run into any trouble, right?”
Bluegrass Stakes Breakout: Further Ado’s Dominant Win
“This was a command performance. It was great. For my own wagering, I'm glad Otinho got up for second because I just played one exacta and played against Reagan's Honor basically.”
Tampa Derby and Brad Cox’s Rising Influence
“Brad Cox had two huge second off the layoff performances in the last few weeks, life of joy and further ado. So clearly we're learning a little bit more about Brad Cox as time goes by...”
The Jockey Decision: Irad Ortiz Jr. and Flavian Pratt
“This decision would tilt the market one way or another under any circumstance. And there actually might be some signaling at this time around and it might tilt it even more than it should.”
“This decision would tilt the market one way or another under any circumstance. And there actually might be some signaling at this time around and it might tilt it even more than it should.”
“It's a great bad problem to have. My hypothesis is, and we've talked about this before, that the Derby is so important to these guys in terms of legacy, whatever, that this jockey decision, he will put the politics aside and he will ride whoever he thinks has a better chance to win.”
“I would highly doubt it. I'll tell you what was one of the surprises. There was a few things to me that were surprising about it. multiple horses made off the pace moves in here and didn't really run into any trouble, right?”
Host
Guest
Nick Tamaro
person
Peter Thomas Fornatal
person
Further Ado
other
Brad Cox
person
Albus
other
Bluegrass Stakes
other
Irad Ortiz Jr.
person
Renegade
other
Santa Anita Derby
other
Ride to Party
other
Sunset Six Thursday April 2nd - $30,000 Carryover - Mikee P and Frank Scatoni
In The Money Players' Podcast • 40m • 4/1/2026
Keeneland Opening Day Late Pick 5 with Ryan Anderson
In The Money Players' Podcast • 39m • 4/2/2026
Players' Podcast - Saturday 4/4/26 | Blue Grass Stakes Late Pick 5, Santa Anita & Laurel Pick 5s
In The Money Players' Podcast • 54m • 4/3/2026
Keeneland Friday Turf Pick 3 w G1 Makers Mark Mile w Eric Deocster
In The Money Players' Podcast • 24m • 4/8/2026
Keeneland Saturday Late Pick 5 - PTF/Eric Solomon
In The Money Players' Podcast • 20m • 4/10/2026
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