2025 Wood Memorial Stakes: Key Contenders and Predictions

QUEENS, N.Y. — The 2025 Wood Memorial Stakes at Aqueduct Racetrack will hand out crucial qualifying points for the Kentucky Derby this Saturday. Twelve horses, including seven previously featured on the Derby trail, will compete for a chance to secure their spots in the prestigious race.

The field’s standout contender, Rodriguez, trained by Bob Baffert, is the early 5-2 favorite. Capturing attention with one win in four career starts, Rodriguez finished third in the San Felipe Stakes on March 1, seeking to improve his standing when the gates open at 6:10 p.m. ET on April 5.

“This will be the biggest field he has faced, and his odds are low,” said racing analyst Michelle Yu, who has accurately predicted race outcomes for high-profile events in the past. Despite his favored status, Yu is looking elsewhere for a winner. “Rodriguez is still a little immature,” she noted.

Instead, Yu’s top pick is a horse she believes is well-suited for the distance, a critical factor in her betting strategy. She has confidently placed this horse in her betting plans, urging punters to pay attention to her insights.

The competition includes Captain Cook, who stands at 7-2, and Hill Road, tagged at 9-2. Captain Cook triumphed in the Withers last month, demonstrating his ability to handle the distance while pressing the pace effectively. Hill Road, having transitioned from turf racing in Ireland, finished third in the Tampa Bay Derby, showcasing versatility that puts him in the running.

The Wood Memorial Stakes is the final New York-based prep race before the Kentucky Derby, offering points as 100-50-25-15-10 for the top five finishers. Historically, three Kentucky Derby winners have emerged from Wood Memorial success stories since 2000.

Yu indicates that bettors should analyze three-year-olds’ pace dynamics carefully. “With many horses vying for early leads, pace will dictate the race,” she cautioned, answering all inquiries related to her picks and expectations.

The anticipated heavy competition comes from other top contenders including Grande (5-1) and Sand Devil (8-1), both attempting to establish themselves in this pivotal race. The betting odds suggest a strong mix of experience and newcomer potential, promising a thrilling event.

Yu concluded with advice for those interested in wagering: “You absolutely need to see my picks before locking in your own bets.”

With the stakes high and the first post set for 6:10 p.m. ET, the 100th edition of the Wood Memorial promises to be a critical waypoint on the road to the Kentucky Derby.