“I’m so happy to be back,” Bob Baffert said after his Derby return in the 2025 Kentucky Derby. He stepped back into Churchill Downs after a long three years of suspension. His excitement was first reflected in the promising performance by Citizen Bull, but as the race came to the final stretch, Citizen Bull’s flop performance loomed with many questions.

However, Jockey Martin Garcia showed his concern for track condition; he stated, This is the first time he ran in the mud, and he didn’t like it. He never felt comfortable.” Nonetheless, Citizen Bull’s charm faded, and he finished in 16th place.

Is this a sign that Baffert’s era is ending? Is he retiring? You have many questions about his 72-year career, which may be coming to an end. 

Bob Baffert’s not retiring 

“He has a small but slightly sensitive foot bruise that will need a few more days.” Bob Baffert, a legendary trainer, confirmed the withdrawal of Rodriguez from the 2025 Kentucky Derby a day before the race. Due to his injury, Rodriguez, a young, talented racehorse, sat back and skipped the Derby.

The unexpected twist devastated the racing community, as Rodriguez had shown the best colt form leading up to the race. His absence will be marked by the absence of key competitors from the Derby lineup, leaving everyone wondering what will happen if he participates. On the bright side, this setback does not mean the end of the 72-year-old’s training career.

Despite a setback for Baffert, it’s not the end of his chances. As an elite trainer, he remains committed to the Derby. “We are resetting our plans and will target him for the Preakness.” Focus is now on the second race in the prestigious Triple Crown—the Preakness Stakes. Moreover, fans are looking forward to his strong victory comeback, thanks to his determination and successful past performances. 

Bob Baffert Wouldn’t Want a Replay of 2024

Back in 2024, the Preakness Stakes was a tough race for Bob Baffert. One of his top contenders, Muth, was withdrawn just a day before the race because of a high fever; all eyes were on the 8-5 odds. “We are sick about this. The horse had been doing really well. But we have to do what’s right by the horse.” Baffert expressed. His opportunity was crushed.

However, Muth was sidelined, and Baffert bet heavily on Imagination’s entry, finishing seventh in a field of eight. The race title was earned by Seize the Grey, trained by D. Wayne Lukas, who beat Mystik Dan from the Triple Crown. 

As a result of 2025, the Preakness Stakes approaches; Baffert is highly anticipating that history won’t repeat itself. His star contender, Rodriguez, is sidelined from the Kentucky Derby, while Baffert has shown his future plans for Rodriguez in the Preakness. Still, the participation has not been confirmed; Baffert is particularly hoping to demonstrate his training charm, and Rodriguez will carry on Baffert’s tradition of winning the race.