Hughes Wins Breeders’ Cup Juvenile by 2¼ Lengths

Undefeated Hughes won the $2 million Breeders’ Cup Juvenile at Keeneland by 2¼ lengths, completing a five-race sweep and strengthening his case as an early favorite for the 2027 Kentucky Derby. Ridden by Flavien Prat for trainer Bob Baffert, the 2-year-old Into Mischief colt took the lead late and held off American History, with Baffert’s other runner, Salahudin, third. Baffert said Hughes showed his mettle when challenged by Coach Pope, who faded to finish fourth. The victory was Hughes’ third Grade 1 win and Baffert’s seventh Juvenile triumph; Hughes is a leading Derby prospect, though the race is still months away and other contenders include U.S.S. Valor, who did not run in the Juvenile.