Leading Kentucky Derby candidate Algorithms is off the Kentucky Derby trail after sustaining a fractured splint bone in his off-foreleg.

Algorithms (3c Bernardini–Ava Knowsthecode by Cryptoclearance) has been sent to the Ocala Equine Hospital in Florida for surgery.  “We are hoping that he only requires a minimal amount of time off,” trainer Todd Pletcher said.  “But he is definitely not going to make the Triple Crown.”

The Bernardini colt is undefeated in three starts culminating with a five-length win in the G3 Holy Bull at Gulfstream Park last month.  He had won a Belmont Park maiden by five lengths in June and reappeared for a one length victory at Gulfstream Park in December.

Bred by Oakbrook Farm in Kentucky, Algorithms cost $170,000 at the 2010 Keeneland September yearling sale.  His dam Ava Knowsthecode has also foaled Keyed Entry (G2 Hutcheson Hcp), Justin Phillip (G2 Woody Stephens Hcp) and Successful Mission (G3 Miami Mile).

Darley shuttler Bernardini still has Alpha heading to the classics.  He won the G3 Withers Stakes at Aqueduct earlier this month and trainer Kiaran McLaughlin said the colt will run next in either the G3 Gotham Stakes on March 3 and/or the G1 Wood Memorial on April 7.