Plutarch wins Robert Lewis Stakes for Baffert's 8th straight victory

The win gives the Hall of Fame trainer his 14th career victory in the race for 3-year-olds.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Plutarch defeated Intrepido by three-quarters of a length in the Robert Lewis Stakes on Saturday at Santa Anita, giving Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert his eighth straight win in the race for 3-year-olds and 14th career victory.

Why it matters

The Robert Lewis Stakes is a prestigious race for 3-year-old thoroughbreds and a key prep race for the Kentucky Derby. Baffert's continued dominance in the event demonstrates his expertise in developing top-tier racehorses and maintaining his position as one of the most successful trainers in the sport.

The details

Plutarch, trained by Bob Baffert, won the Robert Lewis Stakes at Santa Anita Park by three-quarters of a length over Intrepido. The victory marked Baffert's eighth consecutive win in the race for 3-year-olds and his 14th career victory in the event.

  • The Robert Lewis Stakes took place on Saturday, February 8, 2026.

The players

Plutarch

The winning horse in the 2026 Robert Lewis Stakes.

Intrepido

The runner-up in the 2026 Robert Lewis Stakes.

Bob Baffert

The Hall of Fame trainer who has now won the Robert Lewis Stakes 14 times, including 8 straight victories.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The next major race for the 3-year-old horses will be the Kentucky Derby, which is scheduled for May 3, 2026.

The takeaway

Bob Baffert's continued dominance in the Robert Lewis Stakes, a key prep race for the Kentucky Derby, solidifies his reputation as one of the most successful and influential trainers in thoroughbred racing.