why did rodriguez scratch

Rodriguez was scratched from the 2025 Kentucky Derby due to a minor but sensitive foot bruise. The decision was made out of an abundance of caution by the ownership and trainer Bob Baffert, who wanted to allow the injury time to heal before targeting future races such as the Preakness Stakes. The horse was described as healthy overall, with the foot just being a little sensitive and not in pain. This precautionary scratch was intended to avoid further injury and ensure proper recovery.