Expert Who Hit 12 Derby-Oaks Doubles Enters 2026 Kentucky Derby Picks

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With the 2026 Kentucky Derby just around the corner, horse racing expert Jody Demling has revealed his top picks and predictions for the race. Demling, who has correctly picked the Kentucky Oaks-Derby double 12 times in the last 17 years, is not high on the current favorite Paladin, citing concerns over the horse's trainer and pedigree. Instead, Demling is bullish on longshot Canaletto, who he believes has the potential to be a "superstar in the making." The expert is also high on a massive double-digit longshot that he believes could be the best of a "barnful of standouts." Demling is sharing his full 2026 Kentucky Derby leaderboard and betting advice exclusively at SportsLine.

Why it matters

The Kentucky Derby is one of the most prestigious and widely watched horse races in the world, and Demling's track record of success makes his 2026 picks and predictions highly anticipated by racing fans and bettors alike. His ability to consistently identify the top contenders and winners of the Derby and Oaks double has earned him a reputation as one of the sport's premier handicappers, so his insights could prove invaluable for those looking to make informed wagers on the 2026 Run for the Roses.

The details

Demling is particularly skeptical of the current Kentucky Derby favorite, Paladin, who has won the Risen Star Stakes and Remsen Stakes in his last two starts. Despite Paladin's early success, Demling notes that the horse's trainer is 0-for-9 in his Kentucky Derby career, and that Paladin's sire, Gun Runner, finished third in the 2016 Kentucky Derby despite winning the Risen Star that year. Instead, Demling is high on longshot Canaletto, who finished a close third in the Tampa Bay Derby last time out. Demling believes Canaletto, a half-brother to the talented Sandman, has the "looks of a superstar in the making" and could be primed for a big performance in the Kentucky Derby.

• The 2026 Kentucky Derby will be held on Saturday, May 2 at Churchill Downs in Louisville.
• Paladin's next race is the Blue Grass Stakes in April.
• Canaletto is expected to run next at the Lexington Stakes in April.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Demling is sharing his full 2026 Kentucky Derby leaderboard and betting advice exclusively at SportsLine, where fans and bettors can access his top picks and predictions for the Run for the Roses.