Paladin Scratched from Blue Grass Stakes: Early Derby Favorite Off the Trail with Injury

In a major shake-up to the 3-year-old Kentucky Derby picture, Paladin, an early favorite, has officially been scratched from the upcoming Blue Grass Stakes due to an ankle injury.

A Sudden Turn in the Derby Trail

Paladin had been one of the most talked-about colts on the Derby trail, building momentum as a top contender under Chad Brown. His expected start in the Blue Grass Stakes was seen as a crucial final prep — not just for points, he likely already had enough, but to solidify his standing among the elite in this year’s crop.

Instead, connections have opted to pull the plug following the ankle injury that will keep him off the Derby trail entirely.

What This Means for the Derby Picture

Paladin’s absence leaves a significant gap at the top of the market. As an early favorite, he helped shaped the pace, betting pools, and overall narrative of this year’s Derby buildup. With him now out:

• The Blue Grass Stakes becomes far more wide open

• Other fringe contenders now have a clearer path to earn points

• Derby futures markets are likely to shift dramatically

This also opens the door for late-developing runners to step into the spotlight at a critical time in the prep season.

A Tough Blow for Connections

Injuries are an unfortunate reality in racing, and this one stings given Paladin’s trajectory. From early promise to Derby favorite status, expectations were high for a peak performance at Churchill Downs.

Instead, the focus now shifts to recovery and the possibility of a return later in the season.

Canaletto Also Scratched from 2026 Kentucky Derby Trail

Paladin wasn’t the only notable defection from the Blue Grass Stakes. Trainer Chad Brown confirmed the decision, opting to keep Canaletto out as connections reassess his next move on the Derby trail.

While Canaletto wasn’t among the top-tier favorites like Paladin, his presence added depth to the field. His scratch further thins out the competition and contributes to what is quickly becoming a much more unpredictable Bluegrass setup.

With multiple contenders now sidelined, the race dynamics shift even further — giving lesser-exposed runners a real chance to step up at a critical point in the prep season.

Final Thoughts

Paladin and Canaletto’s scratches are a reminder of how quickly things can change on the road to the Kentucky Derby. Just weeks ago, Paladin looked like one of the horses to beat — now, the race for the roses is wide open once again.

For bettors and fans alike, it’s back to the drawing board as the final prep races take on even greater importance.

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