Analyzing the 2026 Kentucky Oaks field: Favorites, contenders and long shots

For the first time this year, the Kentucky Oaks hits primetime. Post time for the race is 8:40 p.m. ET, reportedly because Churchill Downs hopes that the later post will bring increased television ratings and wagering.Color me curious to see whether viewers will stick around until nearly 9 p.m. on a Friday night to watch a race that doesn’t carry nearly the interest level of the Kentucky Derby.Advertisement