Kentucky Derby 2019: Let’s break down what horse you should bet on

Bottom betting line

Even though the post-time favorite has won every edition of Kentucky Derby since the points qualifying system (the aforementioned Road to the Kentucky Derby) was introduced in 2013, I’ll be seeking a good price this weekend, especially now that Omaha Beach is out.

Toward that end, I’ll be honing in on the exacta and trifecta wagers. The former requires that one select the first- and second-place finishers in exact order, while the latter entails selecting the top three finishers in exact order.

Despite the cavalcade of chalk in recent years, these bets have still paid pretty well. The $2 exacta, combining Orb and Golden Soul in 2013, returned $981.60 for every $2 wagered, while the $1 trifecta of Always Dreaming, Lookin At Lee and Battle of Midway (in that order) in 2017 was worth $8,297.20.

Hence, I’d recommend a $1 exacta box of VEKOMA, CODE OF HONOR, SPINOFF, MAXIMUM SECURITY, GRAY MAGICIAN and IMPROBABLE ($30 cost), as well as a trifecta box of those same horses ($60).

This way, we’ll cash regardless of the order (that’s what a “box” means).

Bettors wishing to spend less dough could forego the trifecta bet and maybe add some win bets into the mix — or even some place and show bets, as these wagers typically pay more than usual on Kentucky Derby Day.

Whatever you decide to do, I hope this article helps you make a more informed decision and you cash big on America’s greatest horse race.

You can mail me my cut when the champagne is gone.