Can someone that has been doing this longer than me 15 years tell me when we had a deeper Derby?

2007

2004 was twice as deep as 2007.

Fine with me.
How about 2001 and 2003?

Hey now! How ya been bro?

I'm not sure he can win but I was telling Thunder Gulch the other day that he is the type of horse that will probably hit the exotics at somewhere close to 20-1,

Yeah Tom... Watching AP's hand ride today - with a decent draw for both he and Dortmund, it's going to be hard not to believe this will chalk out, particularly if closers like IS and FR get trapped inside...Still a long way to go, but was really hoping to see more from Far Right today. IS has had a dream set up in the LeComte, followed up by 2 dream trips in the Risen Star and LA Derby. I personally do not believe we've seen his best, nor do I think Far Right is done if there is something that seriously challenges AP on the front.

I'm not ready to completely dismiss either, but we would need a severe meltdown on the front end by both of AP and Dortmund to make it interesting.

Not convinced that the Florida (GP & Tampa), nor the NY route has shown us anything to be excited about, though CD to me is still intriguing. Divining Rod's paid workout today did little to persuade me that he's a serious contender.
The draw tells all, now.

Before we all declare a winner let us not forget the POS Mine That Bird.

How are you defining deep?? I'll agree the top 1 through 6 or 7 might be better than in recent years. I also think it's quite possible 8 through 20 might be the worst in the history of the race. You've got the two Bafferts, the two Pletchers, you can throw in Firing Line and Upstart, and I'll even give you Frosted.....don't the rest stink to high heaven??

I think the strength of a Derby Field is only done best in hindsight. Because of the point system, the field almost has to be of more quality that in pre-points fields. You used to be able to run maidens in the Derby if you ponied up the entry fee. Not so today. Is it a better Derby Field than 2014 ? We won't know until later.

Is this "points" system better or worse ? I think it has good and bad points. Bad #1 is that CD controls the points. Good #1 is you have to earn a way in via racing in mostly quality prep races. Bad #2 is you are dictated a schedule for your horse, who may not be on the same page. Some sniffles and you're out.

1987 and 1988 were deeper.

As were 85 + 86, and possibly 89

Yes, lots were deeper back then. I thought he said last 15 years though?

Either Dortmund or American Pharaoh is winning this race....everyone else is running for minor rewards.