California invader Bullard returns to his bluegrass roots on Saturday, tackling the final Kentucky Derby points event in the $400,000 Lexington Stakes (G3) at Keeneland.

Bullard will be stretching out around two turns for the first time for trainer Michael McCarthy and jockey Umberto Rispoli. The Kentucky-bred son of Gun Runner captured the Grade 3 Bob Hope Stakes at Del Mar last November and finished third in the Grade 2 San Vicente last time out in January. He had to scratch from the Grade 2 Rebel Stakes due to a fever at Oaklawn in late February.

With points at a premium and a full field expected for the Derby, Michael sees the Lexington as more likely to have Preakness Stakes implications for Bullard.

West Point races the colt with partners St. Elias Stable, Talla Racing LLC, Three Chimneys Farm.