Plutarch’s Robert Lewis Victory: A Rising Star on the Road to the Kentucky Derby
ARCADIA, Calif. – Plutarch, with jockey Florent Geroux aboard, surged to victory in the Robert Lewis Stakes at Santa Anita Park on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The win not only secured Plutarch’s first stakes victory and first win on dirt, but as well marked a significant milestone for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, extending his winning streak in the race to an impressive eight consecutive years and a total of 14 wins overall.
Baffert’s Dominance Continues
Baffert’s consistent success in the Robert Lewis Stakes underscores his expertise in developing 3-year-classic talent. This victory is particularly noteworthy as it positions Plutarch as a serious contender for the Kentucky Derby. The horse completed the one-mile race in 1:37.02, finishing three-quarters of a length ahead of Intrepido.
Plutarch’s Potential: Echoes of Authentic?
Baffert has drawn comparisons between Plutarch and Authentic, the 2020 Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup Classic winner. “He keeps getting better every week,” Baffert stated. “I don’t think distance will be a problem with him. This is very exciting. He’s legit.” This assessment suggests Plutarch possesses the stamina and potential to excel in longer races, a crucial attribute for success at Churchill Downs.
Kentucky Derby Leaderboard Implications
Plutarch’s win has significantly boosted his standing on the Kentucky Derby leaderboard. He now shares third place with Intrepido, both accumulating 23 qualifying points. The Kentucky Derby leaderboard determines the 20-horse field for the May 2 race, making each qualifying race a critical stepping stone.
A Look at the Competition
Intrepido delivered a strong performance, securing second place, while Secured Freedom finished third. However, Baffert’s other entries, Desert Gate (the 6-5 favorite) and Cherokee Nation, faced challenges, finishing fourth and fifth respectively. Baffert attributed Desert Gate’s performance to a poor start from the one-hole.
Beyond the Winner: Baffert’s Depth of Talent
Despite the mixed results with his multiple entries, Baffert’s ability to consistently field competitive horses highlights his training prowess. The Robert Lewis Stakes showcased not only Plutarch’s potential but also the depth of talent within Baffert’s stable. Plutarch’s record now stands at two wins in six career starts, with earnings exceeding $190,000.
What Does This Signify for the Future of 3-Year-Old Racing?
Plutarch’s emergence as a leading contender adds another layer of excitement to the upcoming 3-year-old racing season. The competition for Kentucky Derby qualifying points will undoubtedly intensify as more horses vie for a spot in the prestigious race. The focus will now shift to observing how Plutarch develops in the coming months and whether he can maintain his momentum as he prepares for the challenges ahead.
Pro Tip:
Keep a close watch on horses that demonstrate versatility, like Plutarch, who has shown success on both turf and dirt. This adaptability can be a significant advantage in the varied conditions encountered during the Road to the Kentucky Derby.
FAQ
Q: How many times has Bob Baffert won the Robert Lewis Stakes?
A: Bob Baffert has won the Robert Lewis Stakes 14 times with his current winning streak at eight consecutive years.
Q: How many Kentucky Derby qualifying points did Plutarch earn?
A: Plutarch earned 20 Kentucky Derby qualifying points for winning the Robert Lewis Stakes, bringing his total to 23 points.
Q: What did Bob Baffert compare Plutarch to?
A: Bob Baffert compared Plutarch to Authentic, the 2020 Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup Classic winner.
Q: Where was the Robert Lewis Stakes held?
A: The Robert Lewis Stakes was held at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia, California.
Did you know? The Robert Lewis Stakes is a Grade III race, meaning it carries a certain level of prestige and contributes significantly to a horse’s Kentucky Derby qualifying points total.
Stay updated on the Road to the Kentucky Derby by following our coverage of upcoming races and analyzing the latest leaderboard standings. Share your thoughts on Plutarch’s potential in the comments below!
