Kentucky Derby Field More Predicated on Current Form

The Kentucky Derby will be run for the 142nd time on May 7, but this year will be just the fourth since the current system to determine the starting field has been in effect -- one based on points -- and the implications are noticeable.

With Churchill Downs making the races closest to the Derby worth the most points and eliminating the previous system -- one based on earnings in graded stakes races -- the field has become far more predicated on current form, which was the intention of Churchill when it came up with the new system. It seems, too, that trainers are learning how to manage their horses under the current system, because the cutoff to make this year's Derby field looks as though it will be the highest to date.

In 2013, the first year for which points determined who got the coveted 20 slots in the Derby field, a mere 10 points were needed to make the race after a rash of late defections.

In 2014, 20 points were needed, and the last horse who got in, Commanding Curve, finished second to California Chrome.

Last year, 22 points were needed on entry day to make the original field, but after a late scratch, Frammento -- who had 20 points -- drew in from the also-eligible list.

This year, one week out from entry day, May 4, 32 points are needed to get a spot in the field. There are four horses with 32 points, but Mo Tom secured the 20th spot because of the tiebreaker, earnings in non-restricted stakes races. Fellowship, Adventist, and Laoban -- who also have 32 points -- are ranked 21st through 23rd, in that order, reflecting their earnings in non-restricted stakes.

If nothing changes over the next week, Fellowship, Adventist, Laoban, and 24th-ranked Dazzling Gem -- who has 30 points -- could still be entered, as up to four also-eligibles are allowed at entry time. Their connections can then hope to draw in before scratch time on Kentucky Oaks morning, the day before the Derby.