Baffert and the Lone Star Derby

Just got off the phone with Bob Baffert, and he said he’ll be here at Lone Star Park on Saturday to saddle Samba Rooster in the $400,000 Lone Star Derby.

“I love Lone Star,” he said, “of course I’ll be there. I get to Lone Star every year.”

Yes, Baffert loves Six Flags, Whataburger and nearly everything about Texas, as he frequently points out. And his success here has nurtured his affection. Baffert has won 13 local stakes races from 29 starters at Lone Star over the years. And twice he has won the Lone Star Derby, in 1997 with Anet and in 2006 with Wanna Runner.

The future Hall of Famer described Samba Rooster, who’ll be coupled in the betting with Limestone Edge, as “a very fast horse.” Baffert expressed respect for another Californian, El Gato Malo, and said Saturday's race is "looking tough."

Indeed it is. This year’s Lone Star Derby looks as if it could be one of the best editions in years. Here’s the field, drawn just moments ago:

1a. Limestone Edge
2. El Gato Malo
3. Golden Yank
4. Poni Colada
5. King’s Silver Son
6. Texas Wildcatter
7. Ide Like A Double
8. Isabull
9a. Samba Rooster
10. Leonides
11. My Pal Charlie
12.  Fort Apache
13. Real Appeal