GRADE 1 WINNER BAEZA RETIRED TO SPENDTHRIFT FARM
October 6, 2026
LEXINGTON, Ky. — [October 6, 2026] — The regally-bred, Grade 1 winner Baeza has been retired and will enter stud at Spendthrift Farm.
Campaigned by Lee and Susan Searing’s C R K Stable and his breeder Robert Clay’s Grandview Equine, Baeza retires with earnings of more than $2.3 million and 10 top-three finishes from 13 career starts. A decisive winner of the Pennsylvania Derby (G1), the son of McKinzie earned six Grade 1 placings throughout his career, competing exclusively against elite company, finishing ahead of Grade 1 winners Sovereignty, Magnitude, White Abarrio, Citizen Bull, and more.
At three, Baeza finished second in the Santa Anita Derby (G1) before placing in both the Kentucky Derby (G1) and Belmont Stakes (G1). He capped his season with a commanding victory in the Pennsylvania Derby (G1), earning a 105 Beyer Speed Figure. Returning at four, he continued to compete among the nation’s best older horses, adding Grade 1 placings in the Stephen Foster, running a 112 beyer, and Jockey Club Gold Cup.
“Baeza gave us so many great moments, but his run in the Kentucky Derby is something we’ll never forget,” said Lee Searing. “To watch him come charging down the stretch on the biggest stage in our sport was an incredible thrill. He proved that day that he belonged with the very best of his generation, and he continued to show us that throughout his career. We’re incredibly proud of everything he accomplished on the racetrack and we look forward to supporting his stud career with our mares.”
Baeza also brings an exceptional pedigree to stud. A $1.2 million Keeneland September yearling, he is out of Broodmare of the Year Puca, becoming her third Grade 1-winning son.
“Baeza is a rare combination of talent, pedigree, and looks. We are excited to show him to breeders – they are going to love what they see.” said Spendthrift COO and General Manager, Ned Toffey.
Baeza retires sound following a career defined by consistency and top-level competition. He will begin his stud career at Spendthrift Farm in 2027, standing for $25,000 S&N, and will be available for inspection in the coming weeks.
For more information contact Spendthrift Farm at (859) 294-0030 or www.spendthriftfarm.com.