Kentucky Derby rematch in New Jersey this weekend

CINCINNATI - There is action every day for the sport of kings. Just some are better than others. This Sunday, there is a cornucopia of action that makes the temperature rise a few more degrees. Just hang on to your hat, as Monmouth Park may hold a rematch of the Kentucky Derby.

Carded are 14 races that include: $150,000 Jersey Derby, $150,000 Regret Stakes, G-3 $200,000 Taylor Made Matchmaker Stakes, $150,000 Teddy Drone Stakes, G-3 $200,000 Oceanport Stakes, and the event of the day is the $1 million 1 1-8th IZOD Haskell Invitational.

The IZOD Haskell Invitational could be a rematch for the Kentucky Derby. The winner Super Saver, Lookin at Lucky, and Ice Box will do battle with five others to chase down the winners share. At first glance, the race could show that pace will be the key. Belmont runner First Dude looks to be the obvious candidate to set the tempo, as Super Saver and new comer on the scene Trappe Shot should be just off his heels. If First Dude is left alone on the lead to his own pace, the race could get out of hand early. But, with versatile runners as Derby winner Super Saver and Trappe Shot, I see the pace being honest around the oval. At the top of the lane, you will see First Dude get taken over by Super Saver, and Lookin at Lucky will have instructions to keep close as Bob Baffert loves the way he has been working in the morning.

The final furlong should be a glimpse of the Derby runners. Super Saver will have the lead only to be over taken in the final eighth of a mile by Lookin at Lucky, and Ice Box will come rolling like a freight train in the final strides to pick up the minor award.

The top finishers will be: Lookin at Lucky, Super Saver, Ice Box, and new comer Trappe Shot will hang to complete the superfecta. This has the look of the Derby and Preakness combined, and should be the race that it has been billed. Bob Baffert is no stranger to the winners circle on this day, as he seeks an unprecedented fourth victory in Monmouth Park's IZOD Haskell Invitational.