Bob Baffert is among the most decorated and recognizable horse trainers in the world. His horses have won the Kentucky Derby a record-tying six times.

Rodriguez was one of two horses in the field trained by the decorated and controversial Baffert, who is returning to the Derby after serving a three-year suspension. In 2021, Baffert's horse, Medina Spirit, tested positive for a banned steroid after winning the Derby and was stripped of the win.