Bodemeister: Lack of Experience Won't Be a Problem for Kentucky Derby Favorite

A lot has been made about the fact Bodemeister didn't race as a two-year-old. The Kentucky Derby favorite didn't make his debut until January, but that shouldn't be viewed as a major concern heading into Saturday's marquee race.

In all, the colt has raced just four times. Normally that would be a concern, but when you consider his performance—two victories and two second-place finishes—there's no reason to believe Bodemeister won't live up to the hype.

The main reason to believe in the favorite is Bob Baffert. He's one of the best trainers in the world and has led horses to three Kentucky Derby victories in the past, so it's clear he has a pretty good idea of what it takes to find the winner's circle.

Baffert has put Bodemeister on a schedule he thought would best prepare him for the big race, and everything has gone according to plan so far. That includes a victory in the Grade 1 Arkansas Derby three weeks ago.

The fact he was able to overcome an elite field proves the experience factor isn't a big deal. It's all about ability, and Bodemeister showed plenty of it completing the mile-and-a-quarter race without any problems.

Whatever the favorite lacks in seasoning will be offset by the experience of jockey Mike Smith. He has been taking part in big races for more than 20 years and won the Kentucky Derby in 2005 while riding Giacomo.

Other big-name horses Smith had guided include Zenyatta, Thunder Gulch and Tiago. So there won't be anything on his mind on Saturday other than crossing the finish line ahead of 19 other Triple Crown hopefuls.

All told, when considering your choices on derby day, don't let Bodemeister's lack of races change your outlook. He's a top-notch horse that should be peaking at the right time, which is what every trainer hopes for heading into Saturday.

He was also able to secure the No. 6 post position. It's an ideal starting spot since it isn't too close to the rail but not too far outside either. So everything has fallen into place nicely for the favorite, and it wouldn't surprise anyone to see him emerge victorious.

Even if Bodemeister falls short, it won't be due to a lack of experience.