Eskendereya early Derby favorite

Associated Press

The Arkansas Derby and Blue Grass Stakes produced big upsets, although neither had much effect on who will be the favorites at the Kentucky Derby on May 1.

The Blue Grass was won by 40-1 Stately Victor, while 17-1 shot Line of David took the Arkansas Derby.

Eskendereya is still many observers’ favorite in the first race of the Triple Crown. The 3-year-old colt is one of three Derby hopefuls trained by Todd Pletcher: No. 5 Mission Impazible and No. 7 Super Saver, which was beaten by a neck by Line of David.

The biggest question before the Derby is which horses will be left out since the field is limited to 20.

Derby oddsmaker Mike Battaglia said he’ll likely make Eskendereya the 2-1 morning-line favorite. He said Lookin At Lucky would be the second choice at about 4-1.