The countdown is on for the 152nd "Run for the Roses," and the 2026 Kentucky Derby is set to deliver plenty of thrills under cool, dry skies at Churchill Downs this Saturday. With a field of 19 horses ready to charge, post time is 6:57 p.m. ET, and there's already been a twist—the Puma scratched early this morning, shaking up the lineup.

Leading the pack is Renegade, the 4-1 favorite, fresh off wins in the Arkansas Derby and Sam F. Davis Stakes. But he's not the only horse turning heads. Commandment and Further Ado sit at 6-1 each, Chief Wallabee follows at 8-1, and both Emerging Market and So Happy round out the contenders at 15-1. With such a competitive field, finding the right bet can feel like a puzzle—but that's where expert insight comes in.

SportsLine's Gene Menez is no stranger to the Derby spotlight. A former Sports Illustrated reporter and handicapper for the Triple Crown from 2010 to 2012, he's got a knack for spotting winners. In 2010, he correctly predicted Super Saver's victory. In 2015, he nailed the superfecta—American Pharoah, Firing Line, Dortmund, and Frosted—which paid a whopping $1,268.20 on a $2 bet. And just last year, Menez delivered a $1,045 payout with a sharp exacta and trifecta call. His track record speaks for itself, making his picks a must-see for anyone looking to cash in.

So what's Menez's bold move for 2026? He's fading the favorite, Renegade. Despite Renegade's impressive run—winning the Arkansas Derby in 1:49.7 and the Sam F. Davis before that—Menez sees cracks in the armor. For his full predictions and best bets, including the horses he's backing to surprise, check out his breakdown now. Whether you're a seasoned bettor or a Derby day enthusiast, these insights could make all the difference.