The stat that stands out in my mind between Laffit and Baze is that Laffit has won around $100mm more than Baze. That is a HUGE amount. Baze is wonderful and it good to see a person stay true to his roots. He is from No Cal and never did see a reason to leave. Why would he. He isnt a glory seeking man. He doesnt need the accolades. All he wants to do is ride and spend time with his family. I think his story is wonderful. He should be praised for being able to ride 9,000 winners. That is amazing no matter where you are.

As far as talent, Laffit is above Baze. Laffit was a spetacular jockey. He was so smooth and so strong in the saddle. Just a handful of jocks has the ability like Laffit.

Here is a list of my top 5 jocks and this isn't in any order because how could you really seperate them. I will also post a little "tid-bit" about each.

Laffit - donated his winnings on opening day at the Oak Tree meet to families of Sept 11

Antley - 1990 was the leading jockey at Saratoga. He was the second of only three riders to beat out Cordero for this honor in a 16 year period.

Day - Where do you begin--4 BCC victories, 9 TC wins, 12 BC wins - Day orginally wanted to be a rodeo cowboy. Thankfully for us he didnt.

Cordero - 3 time Derby winner--making him 1 of only 4 jocks to win the Derby 3 times. He is the only Puerto Rican jockey to win all 3 TC races.

Shoe - 11 TC wins - 4 Derby, 2 Preakness, 5 Belmont. He will forever be known for his 1957 Derby Ride.