The excitement surrounding the 2025 Kentucky Derby was palpable, but for trainer Bob Baffert, it took an unexpected turn. With the late scratch of Rodriguez due to a foot injury, Baffert found himself with only one horse in the mix: Citizen Bull. Hopes were high as this talented colt had shown promise with a fast start. However, as the race progressed, those hopes quickly dimmed. Citizen Bull fell behind the leaders in the final stretch, ultimately leaving Baffert without a Derby win. Meanwhile, Rodriguez faced a tough journey in the Preakness, with the colt still recovering from his injury, leading Baffert to field only Goal Oriented, who also failed to secure a victory in that prestigious G1 event.
With the Belmont Stakes looming on the horizon, all eyes turned to Rodriguez, who appeared ready to compete following a solid workout. However, it was another of Baffert’s horses that captivated attention. During the 2025 Grade 2 Santa Margarita Stakes at Santa Anita Park, Baffert celebrated a spectacular one-two finish with Seismic Beauty and Splendora. In her stakes debut, the 4-year-old filly seized the lead from the outset and never looked back, ultimately winning by an impressive five lengths with jockey Antonio Fresu aboard. Seismic Beauty’s ability to hold her ground and finish strong displayed not only her tenacity but also her potential for greatness.
Baffert, ever the optimist, expressed his astonishment at Seismic Beauty’s performance, stating, “Yeah, you know, I always thought she could go long, and her last race, you know, she proved that she was a really nice horse.” The enthusiasm in his voice reflected the high expectations he has for the filly’s future, a sentiment echoed throughout the racing community as they recognized her immense potential.
Highlighting Seismic Beauty’s stellar performance, DRF reporter Brad Free stated, “Seismic Beauty = 104 Beyer runaway G2 Santa Margarita on Sunday at SA, Fresu up for Baffert.” This Beyer speed figure is particularly noteworthy, marking her as a frontrunner in the nation for fillies or mares running over a mile on a dirt track. Free further suggested that the summer might hold exciting prospects for Seismic Beauty, hinting at the Grade 1 Clement L. Hirsch Stakes at Del Mar, where she could compete against fillies and mares, and possibly the opportunity to take on male competitors in another Grade 1 event.
Although it may feel premature to make bold predictions, her recent performance clearly establishes her as a strong contender in upcoming major races. This is promising news for Baffert, especially as the racing calendar remains rich with opportunities beyond the Belmont Stakes.
Bob Baffert Will Face His Rival Once Again
The Kentucky Derby, however, presented its own challenges. Sovereignty, the horse who dashed Baffert’s Derby hopes, was trained by Bill Mott and ridden by Junior Alvarado. Despite a difficult start from the 18th post position, Sovereignty showcased incredible determination, passing favorite Journalism at the last moment to secure victory by 1½ lengths, clocking in at 2:02.31. Mott made a strategic decision not to enter Sovereignty in the Preakness, a choice that appears increasingly astute as the horse continues to gain momentum.
As reported by DRF correspondent Mike Welsch, Sovereignty continues to impress in training, stating, “A star-studded team to say the least over a ‘good’ Oklahoma training track with Sovereignty working in co. with no less a mate than Arthur’s Ride breaking 2L back holding slight edge at wire going easiest before edging clear on gallop out 5/8 37.36 102.45 up 3/4 116.03.” This training session highlighted Sovereignty’s competitive spirit, as he managed to hold a slight edge in a fast workout, showcasing the quiet confidence he brings into the Belmont Stakes.
As these two trainers prepare to face off once more, the anticipation builds. With Baffert’s Seismic Beauty shining brightly and Sovereignty continuing to establish himself, racing fans are in for a thrilling season ahead.
