8. Malagacy
Derby Points/Rank: 50 – 5th
Race Record: (3) 3-0-0
Earnings: $586,800
Breeding: Shakleford – Classiest Gem
Owner: Sumaya U.S. Stables
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Last Race: Grade 2 Rebel Stakes at Oaklawn Park, Finished 1st
Analysis: Going into the Rebel Stakes, I felt as though the winner would emerge as a serious contender, but with several horses regressing speed figure-wise in the race, it’s left me scratching my head. Malagacy is a colt with a ton of talent, but his Rebel Stakes win did not convince me that he will like going longer. He looks better suited as a one-turn horse, but for now, he’s earned his way into the top ten of the rankings.