Kentucky Derby odds 2017: Classic Empire the favorite heading into Saturday

The 143rd Kentucky Derby is set to take place on Saturday, and the betting odds have largely stabilized. Classic Empire remains the favorite to win the Running of the Roses following a good post position, but he’ll face some strong competition from the likes of Always Dreaming and Irish War Cry, among others.

Classic Empire entered the week as the favorite and that remained the case after Wednesday’s post position draw, where he drew the No. 14 gate. On Friday, the latest odds had Classic Empire as the favorite at +425, according to OddsShark. The No. 14 gate is the sweet spot right in the middle of the field — Classic Empire can avoid the heavy traffic on the inside gate, while not having to take the wide turns horses on the outside will face.

Last year’s Derby winner, Nyquist, started at the No. 13 gate, while American Pharoah’s Triple Crown campaign started at the No. 18 spot in Churchill Downs. It’s a favorable spot for Classic Empire, whose jockey, Julien Leparoux, must be feeling good about his chances on Saturday afternoon.

However, Classic Empire isn’t an overwhelming favorite. Always Dreaming is right behind him and is starting at the No. 5 gate. McCraken also got a friendly post draw and is starting right beside Classic Empire at No. 15.

Here are the latest odds heading into the morning, via OddsShark. The Kentucky Derby is scheduled to begin at around 6:46 p.m. ET, and NBC’s coverage begins at 2:30 p.m.