J. Keeler Johnson

J. Keeler Johnson (also known as “Keelerman”) is a writer, blogger, videographer, handicapper, and all-around horse racing enthusiast who was drawn to the sport by Curlin's quest to become North America's richest racehorse.

Wednesday’s Best Bets and Quick Picks: Katar seeks a rebound

Wed Apr 01 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares best bets and quick picks for Wednesday, April 1 at Turf Paradise, including plays in the Cactus Wren S. and Cactus Flower S.
Kentucky Derby Roundup: Commandment, Renegade score big wins

Tue Mar 31 2026J. Keeler Johnson

The 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1) is 32 days away. Catch up on the latest news and notes as the Road to the Kentucky Derby unfolds:
Tuesday’s Best Bets and Quick Picks: Cold double at Turf Paradise

Tue Mar 31 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares best bets and quick picks for Tuesday, March 31 at Turf Paradise, including a cold daily double.
Which prep races have produced the most Kentucky Derby winners?

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Not all Kentucky Derby (G1) prep races are equally productive. Some Road to the Kentucky Derby qualifiers yield Kentucky Derby winners with greater frequency than others.
Which Kentucky Derby winners had the best careers after the race?

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Determining which Kentucky Derby winners enjoyed the best post-Derby careers is subjective and depends on which achievements one values most.
Kentucky Derby Maiden Watch: Sovereign Law graduates for Cox

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Time is running out for inexperienced maiden winners to join the Road to the Kentucky Derby and earn points toward a start in the 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1).
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Wonder Dean

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Wonder Dean stamped his ticket to the 2026 Kentucky Derby (G1) with a determined victory in the UAE Derby (G2) on dirt at Meydan in Dubai.
Kentucky Derby pedigree profile: Danon Bourbon

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

A powerful homestretch drive carried Danon Bourbon to a 3 1/2-length victory in the Fukuryu S. on the Japan Road to the Kentucky Derby.
Monday’s Best Bets and Quick Picks: Latigo N Lace drops in class

Mon Mar 30 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares best bets and quick picks for Monday, March 30 at Sunland Park and Turf Paradise, including a 5-1 shot dropping in class.
Singles for mandatory-payout Pick 6 carryovers at Laurel, Gulfstream

Sun Mar 29 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares horse to single in a pair of mandatory-payout Pick 6 carryovers on Sunday at Laurel Park and Gulfstream Park.
Turfway Park: How to bet the $4,492 Super High 5 carryover

Sat Mar 28 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Saturday is closing day of the Turfway Park meet, which means a $4,492 carryover in the $1 Super High 5 is slated for mandatory payout.
Friday’s Best Bets and Quick Picks: Santa Anita’s $58,869 Pick 6 carryover

Fri Mar 27 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares best bets and quick picks for Friday, March 27, at Oaklawn Park and Turfway Park, along with horses to single in Santa Anita’s $58,869 Pick 6 carryover.
Thursday’s Best Bets and Quick Picks: Turfway’s $11,460 Super High 5 carryover

Thu Mar 26 2026J. Keeler Johnson

Handicapper J. Keeler Johnson shares best bets and quick picks for Thursday, March 26, at Oaklawn Park, Turf Paradise, and Turfway Park, including horses to use in Turfway’s $11,460 Super High 5 carryover.