Bob Baffert’s 2025 Season: A Rollercoaster Ride
Bob Baffert’s 2025 season has been nothing short of a whirlwind, marked by exhilarating highs and disheartening lows. After a three-year suspension that sidelined him from Churchill Downs, his much-anticipated return to the Kentucky Derby in May set the stage for a thrilling comeback. Baffert’s leading contender, Citizen Bull—who had previously triumphed at the 2024 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile—unfortunately found himself struggling in the muddy conditions of the Derby, finishing a disappointing 15th. This was a stark contrast to Baffert’s recent accomplishments and seemed to signal a challenging year ahead.
The Disappointment of Rodriguez
Adding to Baffert’s challenges was the last-minute withdrawal of another horse, Rodriguez, who was scratched due to a foot bruise. This unexpected setback compounded Baffert’s disappointment as he had high hopes for Rodriguez as a potential contender in the Derby. Such a turn of events left fans and pundits alike pondering the impact of these hurdles on Baffert’s illustrious career.
The Preakness Stakes: Hope, Yet Again
Weeks later, Baffert entered Goal Oriented in the Preakness Stakes, seeking redemption and the chance to rally his season. Despite a solid performance, Goal Oriented finished fourth, leaving Baffert once again grappling with the challenges of racing this year. Hopes were pinned on the Belmont Stakes, but history repeated itself as Goal Oriented replicated his fourth-place finish, trailing behind strong competitors like Baeza and Journalism, with Sovereignty taking the title.
The Haskell Stakes: A Chance for Redemption
As the elusive dream of a Triple Crown faded, all eyes turned to the upcoming $1 million Haskell Stakes at Monmouth Park. This prestigious event represents a critical opportunity for Baffert to not only redeem his season but also to reinforce his legacy within the racing world. Entering Goal Oriented yet again, Baffert hopes to showcase the colt’s potential against a lineup filled with fierce competitors, including the rising star Journalism and another contender, Gosger.
Goal Oriented’s Path to Potential Glory
Goal Oriented’s journey to the Haskell Stakes has been a carefully curated narrative. With noteworthy victories in two allowance races and a valiant effort in the Preakness, he has emerged as a serious contender. The upcoming race is part of the “Win and You’re In” Breeders’ Cup Challenge Series, which adds another layer of significance to this event. Baffert aims to demonstrate why his entries are always formidable forces in the competitive landscape of horse racing.
via Imago
If Goal Oriented can improve upon his Preakness performance, the Haskell Stakes could mark the beginning of a remarkable mid-season resurgence for Baffert. A tenth Haskell win would further solidify his reputation at Monmouth Park, making it a historic achievement in his celebrated career.
Journalism: A Worthy Adversary
Against Baffert’s ambitions, Journalism looms as a formidable competitor. Garnering admiration from all corners, including Baffert himself, Journalism has earned substantial respect in the racing community. After the colt’s Preakness victory, Baffert admitted, “He’s a remarkable horse. I wanted to be on the lead and was behind horses. I knew [Goal Oriented] was intimidated. He ran well, but he’s still too green for that.”
The Potential of Journalism
With the Haskell Stakes on the horizon, insights from Journalism’s exercise rider, Marc Witkowski, enhance the narrative around this gifted horse. He described the colt as a “beautiful mover” and emphasized his power and adaptability across various tracks. Witkowski’s observations highlight the strong bond developed through years of training and the crucial role it plays in a horse’s performance under pressure.
As the Haskell Stakes approaches, Journalism is poised to demonstrate his prowess at Monmouth, entering the race as the 4-5 morning-line favorite. The anticipation builds as fans and competitors alike prepare for what could unfold in this critical showdown.
