Not that I'm comparing Rachel Alexandra to Ruffian, way too early for that so those mentions are a bit premature, but didn't a similar situation happen albeit not in the Triple Crown? She had the same jockey as Foolish Pleasure, Jacinto Vásquez. He opted for the filly when it came time for the match race, correct? Ah the horror, the lack of loyalty.
Foolish Pleasure was pretty amazing but for pete's sake this was Ruffian. Earl Sande opened his big mouth about Man O'War being the best horse he'd ridden and lost the mount on Sir Barton too right? Let's not forget the IEAH excuse for chucking Smith off of Stardom Bound...she might meet Zenyatta and God forbid he have a conflict (right like that was the reason but it's what they gave). You pick the horse you think is the best. It's a career decision but you're also hoping to ride "the one"...some equine phenom who's both insanely talented and your racing soulmate. Calvin found one with Rachel and bless him, it's truly rare and special. Most jockeys probably never do.