Get ready for a showdown! The upcoming Malibu Stakes (G1) at Santa Anita is shaping up to be a thrilling race, with a dominant presence from the Bob Baffert stable. But can anyone challenge the Baffert brigade? This year's race, featuring a field of 10 talented three-year-olds, is a must-watch.
Baffert's stable boasts five entries, and they're not just any horses – they're the top contenders, according to the morning line odds. This gives Baffert a significant advantage in the seven-furlong sprint. However, the competition is fierce.
Leading the charge against Baffert's quintet is Speedy Wilson, a California-bred star trained by Phil D'Amato. Speedy Wilson has proven his mettle with two stakes wins at Del Mar. Also in the mix are Smooth Cruisein, who has a graded stakes placing under his belt, and Spenard, who last competed at Zia Park.
The Ortiz brothers, Jose and Irad Jr., will be riding for Baffert, adding even more star power to the race. Jose Ortiz will be aboard Barnes, named after Baffert's longtime assistant. Barnes, a $3.2 million purchase, is expected to be a favorite, especially after his impressive 8 1/4-length victory in the Perryville Stakes (G3). Irad Ortiz Jr. will ride Madaket Road, who has placed in four stakes races, including the Woody Stephens Stakes (G1) at Saratoga.
Another intriguing contender is Cornucopian, also trained by Baffert. This Into Mischief offspring is making a comeback after a break and has never raced in California. Cornucopian's past performances include a maiden-breaking win by 5 3/4 lengths at Oaklawn Park and a second-place finish at Aqueduct. Flavien Prat will be in the saddle.
Baffert's lineup also includes Goal Oriented and Midland Money. Goal Oriented, with Joel Rosario as jockey, has a strong track record, including top finishes in the Preakness (G1), Haskell (G1), and Pennsylvania Derby (G1). Midland Money, ridden by Juan Hernandez, is looking to make his mark in the stakes arena.
But here's where it gets controversial... Speedy Wilson's recent win at Del Mar, along with his previous victories in the Golden State Juvenile and Real Good Deal Stakes, makes him a serious threat. Smooth Cruisein, a Florida-bred, has shown promise, finishing second to Baffert's Citizen Bull in the Shared Belief Stakes.
Spenard, trained by Dan McFarlane, rounds out the field. The race is scheduled for December 28, 2025, at Santa Anita Park, with a purse of $300,000.
And this is the part most people miss... The race was pushed back two days, from December 26 to December 28, due to anticipated heavy rain.
What do you think? Will Baffert dominate, or can the challengers pull off an upset? Share your predictions in the comments below!
