John Clay Even without Bob Baffert Kentucky Derby 2024 star power roses

Top horses Muth and Bob Baffert out of Kentucky Derby, but Fierceness and Sierra Leone bring star power to the race.

The transfer portal may be a hot topic in college athletics, but in the world of horse racing, particularly at the Kentucky Derby, it's a different story. Trainer Bob Baffert, who is currently serving a suspension, is not in Louisville for this year's Derby. His top 3-year-old, Muth, is also absent from the field because the colt's owner, Amr F. Zedan, chose not to transfer him to an eligible trainer.

Zedan's decision means that Muth, who has already captured victories in the Grade 2 San Vicente Stakes and Grade 1 Arkansas Derby, will not be competing in the Kentucky Derby. Instead, the talented colt will be pointed towards the Preakness Stakes in Baltimore on May 18.

Despite the absence of Muth, this year's Kentucky Derby is not lacking in star power. Grade 1 Florida Derby winner Fierceness and Grade 1 Blue Grass Stakes winner Sierra Leone are among the top contenders for the prestigious race. Fierceness, who won last year's Breeders' Cup Juvenile, is trained by Todd Pletcher and owned by Mike Repole. Sierra Leone, on the other hand, is trained by Chad Brown and has shown impressive form in his races.

Fierceness, a son of City of Light, demonstrated his class with a dominant victory in the Florida Derby. Sierra Leone, a $2.3 million purchase, has displayed his talent with a strong finish in the Blue Grass Stakes. Both horses have the pedigree and ability to make an impact in the Derby.

Trained by Brad Cox, Catching Freedom is another contender to watch. The colt has shown improvement in each of his starts and drew positive reviews for his recent workout at Churchill Downs. With Cox also fielding Just a Touch, who finished second in the Blue Grass Stakes, the trainer has multiple chances to make an impact in the Derby.

As the anticipation builds for the 6:57 p.m. post time on Saturday, fans can expect an exciting and competitive race with top-class contenders vying for glory at Churchill Downs. The Kentucky Derby remains one of the most prestigious events in horse racing, and this year's edition promises to deliver thrills and excitement to all who tune in.