Okay, here’s a rewritten and expanded version of the Kentucky Derby article, meeting your requirements of at least 600 words, using Markdown formatting, and without using any syntax and maintaining English language:

Kentucky Derby Field Shakes Up as Key Contenders Scratched

The prestigious 151st Kentucky Derby is set to unfold, but the landscape of competition has shifted significantly in the days leading up to the race. The field of hopefuls vying for the garland of roses has narrowed, providing slightly more breathing room for the remaining competitors. Two prominent entries, Rodriguez and Grande, were unfortunately scratched from the Derby on Thursday and Friday respectively, altering pre-race strategies and leaving some racing fans disappointed.

The withdrawal of these horses introduces an element of unpredictability into an already unpredictable event. Horse racing is inherently a sport of variables, influenced by everything from track conditions to the jockey’s decisions during the race. The absence of Rodriguez and Grande certainly impacts the calculations of trainers and jockeys alike, forcing them to reassess their approach to the grueling mile and a quarter contest.

Despite these late changes, the official odds from KentuckyDerby.com have largely held steady throughout the week. The racing world still overwhelmingly views Journalism as the horse to beat. This consensus stems from the horse’s impressive performances leading up to the Derby, combined with perceived advantages in pedigree and training. However, as any seasoned racing enthusiast will tell you, odds are merely predictions and are not guarantees.

Journalism’s position as the odds-on favorite is not without merit. The colt boasts a string of strong finishes, culminating in a decisive victory at the Santa Anita Derby just last month. That performance showcased both speed and stamina, two crucial attributes for success on the challenging Churchill Downs track. Add to that the expert guidance of jockey Umberto Rispoli and the seasoned hand of trainer Michael W. McCarthy, and you have a formidable combination.

The experts within the USA TODAY Network seem to echo the sentiments of the oddsmakers. Their collective wisdom points toward Journalism as the likely victor. The analysts have carefully considered various factors, including past performances, training regimens, and the overall condition of the horse. However, even among the experts, there are dissenting voices and alternative picks, highlighting the inherent uncertainty of the race.

One of the biggest wildcards looming over the Derby is the weather. Louisville’s springtime weather is notoriously fickle, capable of shifting from sunshine to rain showers in a matter of minutes. A wet track can significantly alter the dynamics of the race, favoring horses that excel in such conditions. Muddy conditions can tire out some horses, and give an advantage to those who can handle them better.

The ability of a horse to handle a sloppy track is often a matter of pedigree. Certain bloodlines are known for producing horses that thrive in the mud. Trainers will be closely monitoring the weather forecast and adjusting their training accordingly. They will be looking for any signs that their horse is comfortable running in wet conditions.

Beyond Journalism, several other horses remain strong contenders. Each has a unique set of strengths and weaknesses, making the race a fascinating puzzle to unravel. Some horses are known for their early speed, while others excel at closing from behind. Some are particularly well-suited to the Churchill Downs track, while others may struggle with its unique characteristics.

The Kentucky Derby is more than just a horse race; it’s a spectacle. It’s a celebration of tradition, pageantry, and the enduring appeal of thoroughbred racing. The stands will be packed with enthusiastic fans, many of them decked out in elaborate hats and colorful attire. The atmosphere is electric, adding to the excitement and drama of the event.

As the horses make their way to the starting gate, a hush will fall over the crowd. The tension will be palpable as the jockeys settle into their saddles and the gate springs open. The thunder of hooves will reverberate through the stadium as the horses surge forward, vying for position.

The race itself is a whirlwind of speed, strategy, and sheer determination. The jockeys must carefully navigate the crowded field, conserving energy while positioning their horses for a final charge. The crowd will roar with excitement as the horses round the final turn and head for the finish line.

The Kentucky Derby is a race that can change the lives of everyone involved. For the winning horse, it’s a ticket to immortality. For the winning jockey and trainer, it’s a career-defining achievement. And for the fans, it’s a memory that will last a lifetime.

With the scratches of Rodriguez and Grande, the remaining field has a slightly altered path. But the challenge remains immense, and the competition fierce. The 151st Kentucky Derby promises to be a memorable event, full of surprises and unexpected twists. Only time will tell which horse will emerge victorious and claim the coveted garland of roses.

Expert Predictions (As of 6 p.m. ET, Friday, May 2, according to KentuckyDerby.com)

(Detailed expert predictions would be included here if available, further expanding on the USA TODAY Network consensus and highlighting dissenting opinions.)