2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, futures, date, preview: Expert who nailed 12 Derby-Oaks Doubles says picks
CBS Sports
by
Ross Kelly
February 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The 2026 Kentucky Derby, set to take place on Saturday, May 2 at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., is generating significant buzz as expert Jody Demling shares his predictions for the race. Known for his success in predicting horse racing outcomes, including nailing 12 Kentucky Oaks-Derby doubles over the past 17 years, Demling has provided insights into this year's contenders. Among his surprising picks is Canaletto, a longshot at 15-1 odds, whom he describes as having one of the most impressive runs this winter. Demling also breaks from tradition by not favoring Paladin, the current favorite at 9-1, citing concerns about Chad Brown's track record in the Derby and Paladin's lineage.
The race will feature up to 20 three-year-old thoroughbreds competing on a 1 1/4-mile dirt track. Key contenders include Nearly (10-1), who won the Holy Bull Stakes, Renegade (16-1), Silent Tactic (19-1), and Chief Wallabee (21-1). Demling highlights Canaletto's potential after his dominant victory in a maiden special weight race at Gulfstream Park. He notes that Canaletto’s speed figure was the best in that race, suggesting he could move into single-digit odds with a strong showing in upcoming stakes races.
Demling also points to the
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/24/2026