13Publisher

Who is Kentucky Derby horse Publisher?

Publisher, a bay colt by Triple Crown winner American Pharoah out of Indian Pride (by Proud Citizen), has emerged as a legitimate Kentucky Derby contender following a strong second-place finish in the Arkansas Derby (G1) at 1 1/8 miles. Trained by Steve Asmussen, this late-developing three-year-old has shown steady improvement through seven career starts, compiling a record of two seconds and three thirds while earning $407,756.

His pedigree suggests strong classic potential, combining American Pharoah's proven stamina with Proud Citizen's influence through his dam's side. This breeding has manifested in Publisher's running style, as he's developed into a grinding mid-pack runner who makes sustained moves in the stretch.

His recent form has been particularly encouraging, with a fourth in the Rebel Stakes followed by his career-best performance in the Arkansas Derby, where he made a strong four-wide move to chase home the winner. His progression through longer distances has been steady, and his recent workouts at Oaklawn Park, including a sharp five furlongs in 1:01.00, indicate he's maintaining his form.

Under Asmussen's patient handling, Publisher has shown the kind of development pattern that suggests his best races are still ahead. His grinding style and proven ability to handle nine furlongs while finishing with energy indicate he should handle the Kentucky Derby's 1 1/4-mile distance, making him an intriguing prospect for the classic.