Hoppert: The second-place Wood Memorial finisher was claimed by new owners after his second race and has steadily improved. But the Derby is a tough task.

3. By My Standards

Trainer: Bret Calhoun Jockey: Gabriel Saez Odds: 15-1

Drape: This one is going to be bet down because of backstretch buzz. A reminder: He was a 22-1 shot when he won the Louisiana Derby. I’m looking elsewhere.

Hoppert: He has wowed while training at Churchill Downs, earning him the “wiseguy pick” distinction, and is a good choice for exotic bets.

4. Gray Magician

Trainer: Peter Miller Jockey: Drayden Van Dyke Odds: 50-1

Drape: My mother always bet gray horses. This guy will be in my all-gray exacta, trifecta and super boxes along with Tacitus and Roadster.

Hoppert: He flew all the way to Dubai for Derby points, finishing second in the U.A.E. Derby. No thanks.

5. Improbable

Trainer: Bob Baffert Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr. Odds: 5-1

Drape: With Omaha Beach out, this colt may end up the favorite. There is a lot to like here, except the fact that he has not won a race since last year.

Hoppert: He finished second in the Arkansas Derby on a sloppy track. He also has the same connections as the Triple Crown winner Justify, and lately all they do is win, win, win.