Kentucky Derby long shot picks: Bet Derma Sotogake, Skinner

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We're set for the 149th installment of "The Run for the Roses" and that means there's no better time to share our 2023 Kentucky Derby long-shot picks before Saturday.

Kentucky Derby long shot picks: Odds and dark horse picks for Churchill Downs

Last year, Rich Strike (80/1) stunned by winning at Churchill Downs and that means Kentucky Derby long shot picks are going to be popular this year and the public tries to cash in.

But which horses are the ones to back as we move down the Kentucky Derby odds board? 

Kentucky Derby long shot bets: Derma Sotogake (10/1 or better)

While this horse is just 10/1 and not exactly a long shot, there are still several with lower odds than Derma Sotogake.

The colt one of two Japanese-born horses in the Kentucky Derby field and is a popular option for bettors looking for a healthy payout at 10-to-1.

This horse ran a blistering time in winning UAE Derby against a top international field in late March.

Derma Sotogake also drew the enviable No. 17 post assignment, furthering his status as a Kentucky Derby best bet.  

Kentucky Derby long shot picks: Verifying (15/1 or better)

Verifying has legitimate speed and was a neck short of beating Tapit Trice, one of the Kentucky Derby favorites, at the Blue Grass Stakes in early April. 

On top of that, Verifying was trained by the respected Brad Cox. He landed close to the inside rail with post No. 2, so jockey Tyler Gaffalione — who won the 2019 Preakness Stakes riding War of Will — will need to get him out fast to avoid the crowd.

Kentucky Derby dark horse bets: Hit Show (30/1 or better)

Hit Show drew the No. 1 post. He'd be the first winner from that position since 1986, when Ferdinand pulled it off. But Hit Show offers upside thanks to his long Kentucky Derby odds and his improving speed figures. 

If he avoids the crowd out of the gate, Hit Show could find himself within striking range. 

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