At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey
With frigid temperatures and snow throughout a lot of the country, I am trying to stay warm here in northern Florida (it will be 28 degrees tonight) by heading to Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita for Saturday.
It will be a balmy 83 degrees in Hallandale, Florida for an outstanding 11-race card that features four stakes. My Best Plays Report for Saturday includes action from Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita where it will be just 64 degrees with some morning showers.
The $100,000 Sham (G3) is the feature at Santa Anita, a Road to the Kentucky Derby points race.
The stakes action at Gulfstream Park kicks off early with the third race, the $100,000 Old Hat for three-year-old fillies that drew a field of seven. The Todd Pletcher trained Bode’s Dream is the 8-5 morning line favorite off a gate to wire score in the House Party in her last outing in the slop at Gulfstream Park.
The fourth race is the $100,000 Dania Beach (G3) for three-year-olds going 7 ½ furlongs on turf. The Pletcher trained Made You Look is the 9-5 favorite but I think Kitten’s Cat (3-1) for the Joe Sharp barn deserves a good look.
The ninth race on the card is the $100,000 Ginger Brew for three-year-old fillies on turf going 7 ½ furlongs. A field of 12 go to the post in one of the most wide open races on the card.
The final stake on the afternoon is the $100,000 Mucho Macho Man at a mile on the main track. The Tom Albertrani trained Hemsworth is the 7-2 morning line favorite but won the Nashua (G2) last out taking full advantage of an inside speed favoriting tracing strip. I’ll try and beat him this afternoon.
Here is the opening race from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:
GP Race 1 Clm $35,000 (12:00 ET)
#6 Misschief Maas 5-1
#10 Creative Talent 9-2
#4 Hello Juliet 4-1
#2 Chocolate Bourbon 12-1
Analysis: Misschief Maas stalked the early pace from the inside and finished evenly in a third place finish last out in her first start off nearly a six month layoff. She broke her maiden going 4 1/2 at Monmouth Park back in June in her second career start. She drops in for a $35,000 tag here and should be tighter second off the bench for Plesa and Lopez sticks.
Creative Talent has been beaten double digit lengths in her three starts since breaking her maiden by eight lengths over the main track here back in July. However, her last two were in stakes company and she looks well spotted here on the class drop. She makes her second start off a two month break and looking for her to bounce back facing softer here.
Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 6,10 / 2,4,6,10
TRI: 6,10 / 2,4,6,10 / 2,4,5,6,10
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:
GP Race 10 The Mucho Macho Man (4:34 ET)
#3 Talk Logistics 10-1
#4 Even Thunder 10-1
#9 Recruiting Ready 6-1
#6 Cavil 9-2
Analysis: Hemsworth may go off as the favorite off his big win in the Nashua (G2) but he took advantage of an inside speed favoring racing strip and we will take a stand against and go with Talk Logistics. Our top pick pressed the early pace and drew away to a smart looking maiden win in his debut at Philly and then came from off the pace to rally to finish second in the Buffalo Man behind Sonic Mule. The colt should be able to handle the extra ground. He is by High Cotton out of a Trippi mare that has dropped three other winners including stakes winner Schivarelli ($300,900) who won going long.
Even Thunder was a game winner of the King Swan last out at the Big A going six furlongs off a 2 1/2 month break. He makes his second start since landing with Orseno and his last pair of speed figs fit nicely if he can run back to those figs going long for the first time. He is by Even the Score out of a Thunder Gulch mare that has dropped two foals to race, both sprint winners. Worth a look here if he goes off near his 10-1 morning line.
Wagering
WIN: #3 to win at 6-1 or better.
EX: 3,4 / 3,4,6,9
TRI: 3,4 / 3,4,6,9 / 3,4,6,9,11
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Santa Anita:
SA Race 7 The Sham G3 (3:30 PT)
#1 American Anthem 9-5
#6 Big Hit 4-1
#5 Gormley 8-5
#2 Term of Art 5-1
Analysis: American Anthem was a good looking maiden winner in his debut for the Bob Baffert barn that has won this race four times. The colt tracked the early pace and finished gamely to win by a neck. Three runners have exited the race to run back and they have all won. The $425,000 Ocala purchase is by Bodemeister out of a A.P. Indy mare that has dropped three other winners. The barn is 25% winners moving runners from sprint to route and this guy has plenty of pedigree to handle the extra ground. He should get a dream trip sitting just off the pace and is even quick enough to be right in the mix early.
Big Hit got the job done last out in his third career start, taking the field gate to wire at Del Mar going 6 ½ furlongs. He was well beaten by Gormley in his debut and by Term of Art second out. He tired to finish sixth in his first trip around two turns but sure has enough pedigree, by Super Saver out of a Hard Spun mare, her first foal to race. He is headed in the right direction and still looks as if he has some upside.
Gormley broke his maiden in his debut and took the field gate to wire to win the Frontrunner (G1) in his first start against winners, able to get away with moderate early fractions. He was sent off at 5-1 in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1) but bobbled at the break and faded to finish a well beaten seventh. The colt has worked sharply since his last outing and the fact Shirreffs has kept this guy in training instead of giving him a longer break bodes well he is going to bounce back with a much better effort. However, his price is going to be light and he will not have an easy lead here.
Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 1,6 / 1,2,5,6
TRI: 1,6 / 1,2,5,6 / 1,2,5,6,7
Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.
Gulfstream Park
R1: #2 Chocolate Bourbon 12-1
R3: #5 Sister Nation 8-1
R5: #5 Truly a Moon Shot 8-1
R6: #3 Creative Courage 12-1
R6: #9 Dover Cliffs 12-1
R8: #2 Tarperge 8-1
R10: #3 Talk Logistics 10-1
R10: #4 Even Thunder 10-1
R11: #2 Authentic Kitten 15-1
R11: #3 Princess Victoria 8-1
R11: #13 Anthony Lass 8-1
Good luck today!
By Mike Dempsey
With frigid temperatures and snow throughout a lot of the country, I am trying to stay warm here in northern Florida (it will be 28 degrees tonight) by heading to Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita for Saturday.
It will be a balmy 83 degrees in Hallandale, Florida for an outstanding 11-race card that features four stakes. My Best Plays Report for Saturday includes action from Gulfstream Park and Santa Anita where it will be just 64 degrees with some morning showers.
The $100,000 Sham (G3) is the feature at Santa Anita, a Road to the Kentucky Derby points race.
The stakes action at Gulfstream Park kicks off early with the third race, the $100,000 Old Hat for three-year-old fillies that drew a field of seven. The Todd Pletcher trained Bode’s Dream is the 8-5 morning line favorite off a gate to wire score in the House Party in her last outing in the slop at Gulfstream Park.
The fourth race is the $100,000 Dania Beach (G3) for three-year-olds going 7 ½ furlongs on turf. The Pletcher trained Made You Look is the 9-5 favorite but I think Kitten’s Cat (3-1) for the Joe Sharp barn deserves a good look.
The ninth race on the card is the $100,000 Ginger Brew for three-year-old fillies on turf going 7 ½ furlongs. A field of 12 go to the post in one of the most wide open races on the card.
The final stake on the afternoon is the $100,000 Mucho Macho Man at a mile on the main track. The Tom Albertrani trained Hemsworth is the 7-2 morning line favorite but won the Nashua (G2) last out taking full advantage of an inside speed favoriting tracing strip. I’ll try and beat him this afternoon.
Here is the opening race from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:
GP Race 1 Clm $35,000 (12:00 ET)
#6 Misschief Maas 5-1
#10 Creative Talent 9-2
#4 Hello Juliet 4-1
#2 Chocolate Bourbon 12-1
Analysis: Misschief Maas stalked the early pace from the inside and finished evenly in a third place finish last out in her first start off nearly a six month layoff. She broke her maiden going 4 1/2 at Monmouth Park back in June in her second career start. She drops in for a $35,000 tag here and should be tighter second off the bench for Plesa and Lopez sticks.
Creative Talent has been beaten double digit lengths in her three starts since breaking her maiden by eight lengths over the main track here back in July. However, her last two were in stakes company and she looks well spotted here on the class drop. She makes her second start off a two month break and looking for her to bounce back facing softer here.
Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 4-1 or better.
EX: 6,10 / 2,4,6,10
TRI: 6,10 / 2,4,6,10 / 2,4,5,6,10
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:
GP Race 10 The Mucho Macho Man (4:34 ET)
#3 Talk Logistics 10-1
#4 Even Thunder 10-1
#9 Recruiting Ready 6-1
#6 Cavil 9-2
Analysis: Hemsworth may go off as the favorite off his big win in the Nashua (G2) but he took advantage of an inside speed favoring racing strip and we will take a stand against and go with Talk Logistics. Our top pick pressed the early pace and drew away to a smart looking maiden win in his debut at Philly and then came from off the pace to rally to finish second in the Buffalo Man behind Sonic Mule. The colt should be able to handle the extra ground. He is by High Cotton out of a Trippi mare that has dropped three other winners including stakes winner Schivarelli ($300,900) who won going long.
Even Thunder was a game winner of the King Swan last out at the Big A going six furlongs off a 2 1/2 month break. He makes his second start since landing with Orseno and his last pair of speed figs fit nicely if he can run back to those figs going long for the first time. He is by Even the Score out of a Thunder Gulch mare that has dropped two foals to race, both sprint winners. Worth a look here if he goes off near his 10-1 morning line.
Wagering
WIN: #3 to win at 6-1 or better.
EX: 3,4 / 3,4,6,9
TRI: 3,4 / 3,4,6,9 / 3,4,6,9,11
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Santa Anita:
SA Race 7 The Sham G3 (3:30 PT)
#1 American Anthem 9-5
#6 Big Hit 4-1
#5 Gormley 8-5
#2 Term of Art 5-1
Analysis: American Anthem was a good looking maiden winner in his debut for the Bob Baffert barn that has won this race four times. The colt tracked the early pace and finished gamely to win by a neck. Three runners have exited the race to run back and they have all won. The $425,000 Ocala purchase is by Bodemeister out of a A.P. Indy mare that has dropped three other winners. The barn is 25% winners moving runners from sprint to route and this guy has plenty of pedigree to handle the extra ground. He should get a dream trip sitting just off the pace and is even quick enough to be right in the mix early.
Big Hit got the job done last out in his third career start, taking the field gate to wire at Del Mar going 6 ½ furlongs. He was well beaten by Gormley in his debut and by Term of Art second out. He tired to finish sixth in his first trip around two turns but sure has enough pedigree, by Super Saver out of a Hard Spun mare, her first foal to race. He is headed in the right direction and still looks as if he has some upside.
Gormley broke his maiden in his debut and took the field gate to wire to win the Frontrunner (G1) in his first start against winners, able to get away with moderate early fractions. He was sent off at 5-1 in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile (G1) but bobbled at the break and faded to finish a well beaten seventh. The colt has worked sharply since his last outing and the fact Shirreffs has kept this guy in training instead of giving him a longer break bodes well he is going to bounce back with a much better effort. However, his price is going to be light and he will not have an easy lead here.
Wagering
WIN: #1 to win at 9-5 or better.
EX: 1,6 / 1,2,5,6
TRI: 1,6 / 1,2,5,6 / 1,2,5,6,7
Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.
Gulfstream Park
R1: #2 Chocolate Bourbon 12-1
R3: #5 Sister Nation 8-1
R5: #5 Truly a Moon Shot 8-1
R6: #3 Creative Courage 12-1
R6: #9 Dover Cliffs 12-1
R8: #2 Tarperge 8-1
R10: #3 Talk Logistics 10-1
R10: #4 Even Thunder 10-1
R11: #2 Authentic Kitten 15-1
R11: #3 Princess Victoria 8-1
R11: #13 Anthony Lass 8-1
Good luck today!
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at The Meadows
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 4:20 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 77 - Purse:$11100 - CD 3-6YO NW 5 EXT PM RACES OR $25,000 LIFE. AE: 3-6YO F& M NW 6 EXT PM RACES LIFE
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 2 CANDY LANE 5/1
# 4 WANNA BE A WINNA 3/1
# 5 UP FRONT MURRAY 12/1
CANDY LANE looks formidable to best this group. Sometimes you just have to go with a feeling, lean toward this one's chances. Has really strong TrackMaster Speed Ratings and surely has to be considered for a wager this time. It's dangerous to consider based only on class, but this mare has among the best class figures of the field of horses. WANNA BE A WINNA - Many analyzers love this gelding on the driver-trainer rankings alone. In recent times Palone has been hot, which may give the edge to this gelding in this race. UP FRONT MURRAY - Hands down the best position at The Meadows is the 5. The win statistic is great. A great play in here as he has one of the highest winning statistics in the field of starters as well as magnificent credentials all around.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 11 - Post: 4:20 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 77 - Purse:$11100 - CD 3-6YO NW 5 EXT PM RACES OR $25,000 LIFE. AE: 3-6YO F& M NW 6 EXT PM RACES LIFE
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 2 CANDY LANE 5/1
# 4 WANNA BE A WINNA 3/1
# 5 UP FRONT MURRAY 12/1
CANDY LANE looks formidable to best this group. Sometimes you just have to go with a feeling, lean toward this one's chances. Has really strong TrackMaster Speed Ratings and surely has to be considered for a wager this time. It's dangerous to consider based only on class, but this mare has among the best class figures of the field of horses. WANNA BE A WINNA - Many analyzers love this gelding on the driver-trainer rankings alone. In recent times Palone has been hot, which may give the edge to this gelding in this race. UP FRONT MURRAY - Hands down the best position at The Meadows is the 5. The win statistic is great. A great play in here as he has one of the highest winning statistics in the field of starters as well as magnificent credentials all around.
Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Woodbine
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 2 - Post: 7:50 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 84 - Purse:$12000 - NW $4,000 LAST 5 STARTS OR NW $8,000 LAST 10 STARTS.
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 10 JUSTICE JET 4/1
# 9 IN SECRET 9/2
# 5 MAXIMUSCLE 5/1
JUSTICE JET sure does look ready to end up in the winner's circle. Has very nice speed figures and definitely has to be considered for a play this time. This fine animal looks tough considering the high class ratings. Don't throw out of any exotics. Many harness players will recognize the outstanding TrackMaster Speed Rating in the last affair. Stacks up against any horse in this field of horses. IN SECRET - Take a look at this contender's average speed rating of 88 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a great wager. Heads into this competition with nice TrackMaster class stats in relationship to the group - take a good look. MAXIMUSCLE - Terrific win figure combined with recent respectable performances. We think he can handle this group.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 2 - Post: 7:50 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 84 - Purse:$12000 - NW $4,000 LAST 5 STARTS OR NW $8,000 LAST 10 STARTS.
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES
# 10 JUSTICE JET 4/1
# 9 IN SECRET 9/2
# 5 MAXIMUSCLE 5/1
JUSTICE JET sure does look ready to end up in the winner's circle. Has very nice speed figures and definitely has to be considered for a play this time. This fine animal looks tough considering the high class ratings. Don't throw out of any exotics. Many harness players will recognize the outstanding TrackMaster Speed Rating in the last affair. Stacks up against any horse in this field of horses. IN SECRET - Take a look at this contender's average speed rating of 88 and compare to today's class rating. Looks like a great wager. Heads into this competition with nice TrackMaster class stats in relationship to the group - take a good look. MAXIMUSCLE - Terrific win figure combined with recent respectable performances. We think he can handle this group.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Gulfstream Park
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 10 - Stakes - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $100000 Class Rating: 95
MUCHO MACHO MAN S. - THREE YEAR OLDS. FREE NOMINATION BY MONDAY, DECEMBER 26. $750 TO ENTER AND $250 TO START. $100,000 GUARANTEED. AFTER PAYMENT OF 1% TO ALL OWNERS OF HORSES FINISHING SIXTH THROUGH LAST, 62% OF THE REMAINING PURSE SHALL BE PAID TO THE OWNER OF THE WINNER, 20% TO SECOND, 10% TO THIRD, 5% TO FOURTH, AND 3% TO FIFTH. WEIGHT: 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A GRADED STAKES
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 6 CAVIL 9/2
# 5 SKYLER'S SCRAMJET 5/1
# 3 TALK LOGISTICS 10/1
My choice for this event is CAVIL. Has run soundly when racing a dirt route race. Look for a respectable pace improvement from this horse who enters with second time Lasix today. With a formidable 104 speed rating last time out, will surely be a factor in this competition. SKYLER'S SCRAMJET - Is hard not to consider based on speed figures which have been solid - 95 avg - of late. Look for a solid pace improvement from this pony who enters with second time Lasix today. TALK LOGISTICS - This animal enters today's contest with second time Lasix. Had one of the top Equibase Speed Figures of this group in his last outing.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 10 - Stakes - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $100000 Class Rating: 95
MUCHO MACHO MAN S. - THREE YEAR OLDS. FREE NOMINATION BY MONDAY, DECEMBER 26. $750 TO ENTER AND $250 TO START. $100,000 GUARANTEED. AFTER PAYMENT OF 1% TO ALL OWNERS OF HORSES FINISHING SIXTH THROUGH LAST, 62% OF THE REMAINING PURSE SHALL BE PAID TO THE OWNER OF THE WINNER, 20% TO SECOND, 10% TO THIRD, 5% TO FOURTH, AND 3% TO FIFTH. WEIGHT: 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A GRADED STAKES
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 6 CAVIL 9/2
# 5 SKYLER'S SCRAMJET 5/1
# 3 TALK LOGISTICS 10/1
My choice for this event is CAVIL. Has run soundly when racing a dirt route race. Look for a respectable pace improvement from this horse who enters with second time Lasix today. With a formidable 104 speed rating last time out, will surely be a factor in this competition. SKYLER'S SCRAMJET - Is hard not to consider based on speed figures which have been solid - 95 avg - of late. Look for a solid pace improvement from this pony who enters with second time Lasix today. TALK LOGISTICS - This animal enters today's contest with second time Lasix. Had one of the top Equibase Speed Figures of this group in his last outing.
Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 7 - Optional Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $42000 Class Rating: 78
FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR MD SIRED OR MD BRED RACES OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $50,000-$45,000. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 7 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 7 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $50,000, FOR EACH $2,500 TO $45,000 1 LB. (RACES
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 7 CRABCAKES 1/1
# 2 STAR STUDDED 7/2
# 3 EURO PRINCESS 15/1
CRABCAKES has a very good shot to take this race. Is worth a close look and may be a bet - strong Equibase Speed Figures (84 average) at today's distance and surface lately. Houghton has her trained solidly to break swiftly out of the gate. Recorded a formidable Equibase Speed Figure in the latest race. Can run another good one in this affair. STAR STUDDED - This racer enters today's contest on Lasix. Is tough not to examine given the company run in recently. EURO PRINCESS - Have to examine solely on class, with some of the most favorable class figures of this group of animals.
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.
Race 7 - Optional Claiming - 6.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $42000 Class Rating: 78
FOR FILLIES THREE YEARS OLD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR MD SIRED OR MD BRED RACES OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $50,000-$45,000. WEIGHT, 122 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE SINCE NOVEMBER 7 ALLOWED 2 LBS. A RACE SINCE OCTOBER 7 ALLOWED 4 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $50,000, FOR EACH $2,500 TO $45,000 1 LB. (RACES
RECOMMENDED*CHOICES
# 7 CRABCAKES 1/1
# 2 STAR STUDDED 7/2
# 3 EURO PRINCESS 15/1
CRABCAKES has a very good shot to take this race. Is worth a close look and may be a bet - strong Equibase Speed Figures (84 average) at today's distance and surface lately. Houghton has her trained solidly to break swiftly out of the gate. Recorded a formidable Equibase Speed Figure in the latest race. Can run another good one in this affair. STAR STUDDED - This racer enters today's contest on Lasix. Is tough not to examine given the company run in recently. EURO PRINCESS - Have to examine solely on class, with some of the most favorable class figures of this group of animals.
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #8 - Post: 3:30pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $8,500 Class Rating: 72
Rating:
#9 ALERTANDLISTENING (ML=9/2)
#7 MY PISANO (ML=20/1)
#10 MIKE WASOWSKY (ML=20/1)
ALERTANDLISTENING - Jockey jumped on this gelding's back for the 1st time on December 20th. Should know the horse even better in today's contest. Three consecutive improved speed figures (56-62-68) make this horse a strong contender. I like the piece of information that this gelding's last speed figure, 68, is tops in this bunch. MY PISANO - Possibly a peak effort for this gelding today. Been getting closer to the winner with each recent start. Gelding is a few starts into a return here. Should give a big performance today. 45-53-55 are last three speed figures. Improving each time out is something he should do again in this event. MIKE WASOWSKY - Trainer, Hamm, has been deliberate with this gelding off the layoff. Look for a solid effort today. Going on Lasix for the first time. While a familiar handicapping angle, it's still quite important to know.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 ACADEMIC AFFAIR (ML=3/1), #5 NAVIGANDO (ML=5/1), #12 CONQUEST CYCLONE (ML=6/1),
ACADEMIC AFFAIR - Hard to put your dough on the win end of any thoroughbred that finishes second and third as often as this one does. NAVIGANDO - Last performed on December 20th at Mahoning Valley Race Cour, finishing sixth. Unlikely to move up off of that try in today's event. This vulnerable equine has been a bummer for the bettors as the favorite time and time again. CONQUEST CYCLONE - It looks like too much early speed is on board in this race. This early speedster will almost certainly get cooked on the front end. Don't think this less than sharp equine will make a winning move in today's race. That last speed figure was mediocre when compared with today's Equibase class figure.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #9 ALERTANDLISTENING to win if you can get odds of 3/1 or more
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,10]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,10] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
Mahoning Valley Race Course - Race #8 - Post: 3:30pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $8,500 Class Rating: 72
Rating:
#9 ALERTANDLISTENING (ML=9/2)
#7 MY PISANO (ML=20/1)
#10 MIKE WASOWSKY (ML=20/1)
ALERTANDLISTENING - Jockey jumped on this gelding's back for the 1st time on December 20th. Should know the horse even better in today's contest. Three consecutive improved speed figures (56-62-68) make this horse a strong contender. I like the piece of information that this gelding's last speed figure, 68, is tops in this bunch. MY PISANO - Possibly a peak effort for this gelding today. Been getting closer to the winner with each recent start. Gelding is a few starts into a return here. Should give a big performance today. 45-53-55 are last three speed figures. Improving each time out is something he should do again in this event. MIKE WASOWSKY - Trainer, Hamm, has been deliberate with this gelding off the layoff. Look for a solid effort today. Going on Lasix for the first time. While a familiar handicapping angle, it's still quite important to know.
Vulnerable Contenders: #3 ACADEMIC AFFAIR (ML=3/1), #5 NAVIGANDO (ML=5/1), #12 CONQUEST CYCLONE (ML=6/1),
ACADEMIC AFFAIR - Hard to put your dough on the win end of any thoroughbred that finishes second and third as often as this one does. NAVIGANDO - Last performed on December 20th at Mahoning Valley Race Cour, finishing sixth. Unlikely to move up off of that try in today's event. This vulnerable equine has been a bummer for the bettors as the favorite time and time again. CONQUEST CYCLONE - It looks like too much early speed is on board in this race. This early speedster will almost certainly get cooked on the front end. Don't think this less than sharp equine will make a winning move in today's race. That last speed figure was mediocre when compared with today's Equibase class figure.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Play #9 ALERTANDLISTENING to win if you can get odds of 3/1 or more
EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,10]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [7,9,10] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts
Penn National - Race #4 - Post: 7:22pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,500 Class Rating: 72
Rating:
#3 MRS BARBAROUX (ML=9/2)
MRS BARBAROUX - Entered last at Parx Racing in a race with a class figure of 78. Dropping considerably in Equibase class figure in today's event puts her in a solid position in today's race. For my money, a bullet workout is the best indicator of fitness there is. Look at that last one - 36.3. Very impressive. Brown gets a break on this thoroughbred carrying 5 lbs less than last out. Should make the difference in this race.
Vulnerable Contenders: #8 HARLINGTON ROMANCE (ML=5/2), #6 SAHARAN SERENADE (ML=7/2), #7 HEAVY TIPPER (ML=4/1),
HARLINGTON ROMANCE - Hasn't been on the Penn National oval in the last three weeks. Cause for some concern. HEAVY TIPPER - Awfully hard to wager on this vulnerable equine when she hasn't been showing any indications of eagerness recently.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #3 MRS BARBAROUX on the win end if we get at least 1/1 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Pass
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None
Penn National - Race #4 - Post: 7:22pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,500 Class Rating: 72
Rating:
#3 MRS BARBAROUX (ML=9/2)
MRS BARBAROUX - Entered last at Parx Racing in a race with a class figure of 78. Dropping considerably in Equibase class figure in today's event puts her in a solid position in today's race. For my money, a bullet workout is the best indicator of fitness there is. Look at that last one - 36.3. Very impressive. Brown gets a break on this thoroughbred carrying 5 lbs less than last out. Should make the difference in this race.
Vulnerable Contenders: #8 HARLINGTON ROMANCE (ML=5/2), #6 SAHARAN SERENADE (ML=7/2), #7 HEAVY TIPPER (ML=4/1),
HARLINGTON ROMANCE - Hasn't been on the Penn National oval in the last three weeks. Cause for some concern. HEAVY TIPPER - Awfully hard to wager on this vulnerable equine when she hasn't been showing any indications of eagerness recently.
STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Have to go with #3 MRS BARBAROUX on the win end if we get at least 1/1 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:
Pass
TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Skip
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
None
Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct
RACE #3 - AQUEDUCT - 1:18 PM EASTERN POST
The Ladies Handicap
8.3 FURLONGS WINTERIZED INNER DIRT TRACK FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES
$100,000.00 PURSE
#4 WONDER GAL
#1 HIGHWAY STAR
#5 ALWAYS ON MY MIND
#3 CHORUS LINE
The Ladies Handicap which was Inaugurated at the Jerome Park Racetrack in 1868, it is the oldest stakes race in the U.S. exclusively for fillies and mares. Here in the 147th running of this stakes event, #4 WONDER GAL, the overall speed leader in this field racing at, or about, today's distance of a mile and seventy yards on the dirt, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in each of her last five starts, hitting the board in a pair, including a BLISTERING, 12-length, "POWER RUN WIN" in her 4th race back. #1 HIGHWAY STAR, the pace profile leader in this field, has hit the board in four straight, winning three times, including back-to-back "POWER RUN WINS" in her last two starts. Jockey Angel Arroyo has been in her irons on two previous occasions, winning 'em both, en route to a + 560% return on investment in the process, and is back this afternoon here in Ozone Park for his 3rd ride, gunning for a "Hat Trick Win!"
RACE #3 - AQUEDUCT - 1:18 PM EASTERN POST
The Ladies Handicap
8.3 FURLONGS WINTERIZED INNER DIRT TRACK FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STAKES
$100,000.00 PURSE
#4 WONDER GAL
#1 HIGHWAY STAR
#5 ALWAYS ON MY MIND
#3 CHORUS LINE
The Ladies Handicap which was Inaugurated at the Jerome Park Racetrack in 1868, it is the oldest stakes race in the U.S. exclusively for fillies and mares. Here in the 147th running of this stakes event, #4 WONDER GAL, the overall speed leader in this field racing at, or about, today's distance of a mile and seventy yards on the dirt, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in each of her last five starts, hitting the board in a pair, including a BLISTERING, 12-length, "POWER RUN WIN" in her 4th race back. #1 HIGHWAY STAR, the pace profile leader in this field, has hit the board in four straight, winning three times, including back-to-back "POWER RUN WINS" in her last two starts. Jockey Angel Arroyo has been in her irons on two previous occasions, winning 'em both, en route to a + 560% return on investment in the process, and is back this afternoon here in Ozone Park for his 3rd ride, gunning for a "Hat Trick Win!"
Woodbine Harness: Saturday 1/7 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
PICK 5: 1,5,6,10/9/1,3,4,6/1,2,3,6/2,6 = $25.60
EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,3,6/2,6/6/1,2,7 = $24
LATE PICK 4: 2,5/3,5,6,7/1,4,6/4,6 = $48
MEET STATS: 66 - 259 / $410.30 BEST BETS: 10 - 24 / $36.40
SPOT PLAYS: 7 - 24 / $33.20
Best Bet: WANDA BAYAMA (6th)
Spot Play: IN SECRET (2nd)
Race 1
(5) ADVERSITY figures to get a good trip here stalking what should be a solid pace and if the flow is decent, he can collar the leaders late. (10) HUBBY NUMBER ONE took a new life's mark last time out and he is another that should be passing some tired leaders in the back 1/2 here. (1) AMITYVILLE LINDY comes off a solid win from this tricky post and he's another that can pass rivals; using. (6) STAR PHOTO ships in sporting a nice win streak and goes for a hot stable. He could get stung early here, though.
Race 2
(9) IN SECRET showed some late interest in his comeback race now he drops to a level where he can dominate if he is close to right. Expect early aggression here. (10) JUSTICE JET has had sharp speed late in both miles here and if he can overcome this post, he should be right there. (8) WILLYORWONTHE gets a significant driver change here and he is worth a look at a price. (5) MAXIMUSCLE is his own worst enemy, but he figures here if he can stay flat.
Race 3
(1) PRESCOTTS HOPE has been as good as any in his past two starts, he just needs a better trip. He should be a square price here so I'll give him the nod. (4) MODERN LEGEND came off an 18 1/2-month layoff and produced a sub-1:50 winning effort; respect his class and toughness. (3) NICKLE BAG will likely switch tactics here after getting hung out twice in a row. He isn't out of this. (6) ALEXAS JACKPOT is in very good form and he should take a slice here racing from close range.
Race 4
(2) IMSPORTY went too fast
26 2/5) in the third 1/4 last time, but that loss will boost his price here. He gets his regular driver back; slight nod. (3) WAZZUP WAZZUP fits well here and is a threat racing on or near the front. (6) BOOMBOOM BALLYKEEL is another that fits here, but he is trip-dependent most of the time, so he is hard to love on top. (1) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE drops and moves inside; consider for exotics.
Race 5
(6) TRASHYTONGUETALKER has had late interest in both of his last two starts but he was poorly positioned. Perhaps he can work out a better trip here starting from the best post. (8) ALWAYS A HOTSHOT returns sporting a sharp qualifier and he fits well here; using. (2) AWESOMENESS went a remarkable trip from the 10-hole in defeat last time. He's another that merits multi-race consideration.
Race 6
(6) WANDA BAYAMA is a different mare racing for Larocque. I'll stick with her here despite the class jump. (7) MISS BABE DELIGHT ran into a bearcat last time and she was easily repelled. She should fare better vs. these. (3) MISS COCO LUCK rarely misses a check. She should take a slice here racing from close range. (2) TRUE REFLECTION drops slightly to a class where she should take a share.
Race 7
(1) ARTISTIC MADISON steps up off her best mile in more than a year. She is fast enough and classy enough to beat these when she is at the top of her game, which she appears to be now. (2) DELIGHTFUL HILL and (7) SAYITALL BB are obvious contenders dropping from the top class, but one or both could be overbet. (3) KIWI FOCUS showed grit and determination last time when repelling several challenges after being hung out a long way to make the front. She isn't impossible here, but this group is much tougher.
Race 8
(5) J JS DELIVERY paced a phenomenal mile on New Year's Day at Flamboro when making his first start off the claim. Jump on his bandwagon now while you can still get a square price. (2) PISTON BROKE will likely be a big chalk here coming off a sharp closing effort, but his being tagged sends mixed signals. (3) COOL ROCK can start a bit better here which would greatly improve his chances. (1) MACH ON THE BEACH can use another inside following trip to grab a share here.
Race 9
(3) THREEDEE DELIGHT A was game in defeat in her North American debut now she faces similar and she should be right there vs. these. (6) MUCH ADOO faces easier for her third start off a break and she should last longer this time. (5) MAPLELEA has found her best stride after a long dry spell; using. (7) REQUEST FOR PAROLE takes a sizable class drop here for which she merits consideration.
Race 10
(1) COMPANY MAN drops slightly and moves inside here. He should race closer to his start two back where he set a new life's mark. (4) VEGAS ROCKS went a big trip in defeat last time now he debuts for young trainer Gangell here; using. (6) ASAP HANOVER is in sharp form and he is hard to leave off the ticket considering his good tactical speed. (7) DOVUTO HANOVER can pass a few of these late and take a share making his first start in 4 months.
Race 11
(4) YORK SEELSTER debuts for Allard off a big win and it's reasonable to predict another win and another claim for him. (6) BRINGHOME THEBLUE was a solid winner when he returned home on December 12th. He looks like the main danger. (7) SHADOW MARGEAUX stayed game last time despite getting an impossible trip; consider for exotics at a price. (9) NEWBIE is worth a look debuting for Wallace.
Race 12
(9) JIMBELINA really hit her top stride in the Niagara series. She can take another here racing on or near the lead. (1) HOT SPOT HANOVER couldn't overcome a tough trip last time when 2nd to the choice. She should be closer here early which gives her a chance. (10) BERNADETTE should take a slice here, most likely by passing many of these late after taking back off the gate. (6) THREE DREAMS is a great one to use in the bottom exotics slots. (3) LADY JEN had a great record last year and she should kick off a new campaign by taking a share.
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
PICK 5: 1,5,6,10/9/1,3,4,6/1,2,3,6/2,6 = $25.60
EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,3,6/2,6/6/1,2,7 = $24
LATE PICK 4: 2,5/3,5,6,7/1,4,6/4,6 = $48
MEET STATS: 66 - 259 / $410.30 BEST BETS: 10 - 24 / $36.40
SPOT PLAYS: 7 - 24 / $33.20
Best Bet: WANDA BAYAMA (6th)
Spot Play: IN SECRET (2nd)
Race 1
(5) ADVERSITY figures to get a good trip here stalking what should be a solid pace and if the flow is decent, he can collar the leaders late. (10) HUBBY NUMBER ONE took a new life's mark last time out and he is another that should be passing some tired leaders in the back 1/2 here. (1) AMITYVILLE LINDY comes off a solid win from this tricky post and he's another that can pass rivals; using. (6) STAR PHOTO ships in sporting a nice win streak and goes for a hot stable. He could get stung early here, though.
Race 2
(9) IN SECRET showed some late interest in his comeback race now he drops to a level where he can dominate if he is close to right. Expect early aggression here. (10) JUSTICE JET has had sharp speed late in both miles here and if he can overcome this post, he should be right there. (8) WILLYORWONTHE gets a significant driver change here and he is worth a look at a price. (5) MAXIMUSCLE is his own worst enemy, but he figures here if he can stay flat.
Race 3
(1) PRESCOTTS HOPE has been as good as any in his past two starts, he just needs a better trip. He should be a square price here so I'll give him the nod. (4) MODERN LEGEND came off an 18 1/2-month layoff and produced a sub-1:50 winning effort; respect his class and toughness. (3) NICKLE BAG will likely switch tactics here after getting hung out twice in a row. He isn't out of this. (6) ALEXAS JACKPOT is in very good form and he should take a slice here racing from close range.
Race 4
(2) IMSPORTY went too fast
26 2/5) in the third 1/4 last time, but that loss will boost his price here. He gets his regular driver back; slight nod. (3) WAZZUP WAZZUP fits well here and is a threat racing on or near the front. (6) BOOMBOOM BALLYKEEL is another that fits here, but he is trip-dependent most of the time, so he is hard to love on top. (1) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE drops and moves inside; consider for exotics.Race 5
(6) TRASHYTONGUETALKER has had late interest in both of his last two starts but he was poorly positioned. Perhaps he can work out a better trip here starting from the best post. (8) ALWAYS A HOTSHOT returns sporting a sharp qualifier and he fits well here; using. (2) AWESOMENESS went a remarkable trip from the 10-hole in defeat last time. He's another that merits multi-race consideration.
Race 6
(6) WANDA BAYAMA is a different mare racing for Larocque. I'll stick with her here despite the class jump. (7) MISS BABE DELIGHT ran into a bearcat last time and she was easily repelled. She should fare better vs. these. (3) MISS COCO LUCK rarely misses a check. She should take a slice here racing from close range. (2) TRUE REFLECTION drops slightly to a class where she should take a share.
Race 7
(1) ARTISTIC MADISON steps up off her best mile in more than a year. She is fast enough and classy enough to beat these when she is at the top of her game, which she appears to be now. (2) DELIGHTFUL HILL and (7) SAYITALL BB are obvious contenders dropping from the top class, but one or both could be overbet. (3) KIWI FOCUS showed grit and determination last time when repelling several challenges after being hung out a long way to make the front. She isn't impossible here, but this group is much tougher.
Race 8
(5) J JS DELIVERY paced a phenomenal mile on New Year's Day at Flamboro when making his first start off the claim. Jump on his bandwagon now while you can still get a square price. (2) PISTON BROKE will likely be a big chalk here coming off a sharp closing effort, but his being tagged sends mixed signals. (3) COOL ROCK can start a bit better here which would greatly improve his chances. (1) MACH ON THE BEACH can use another inside following trip to grab a share here.
Race 9
(3) THREEDEE DELIGHT A was game in defeat in her North American debut now she faces similar and she should be right there vs. these. (6) MUCH ADOO faces easier for her third start off a break and she should last longer this time. (5) MAPLELEA has found her best stride after a long dry spell; using. (7) REQUEST FOR PAROLE takes a sizable class drop here for which she merits consideration.
Race 10
(1) COMPANY MAN drops slightly and moves inside here. He should race closer to his start two back where he set a new life's mark. (4) VEGAS ROCKS went a big trip in defeat last time now he debuts for young trainer Gangell here; using. (6) ASAP HANOVER is in sharp form and he is hard to leave off the ticket considering his good tactical speed. (7) DOVUTO HANOVER can pass a few of these late and take a share making his first start in 4 months.
Race 11
(4) YORK SEELSTER debuts for Allard off a big win and it's reasonable to predict another win and another claim for him. (6) BRINGHOME THEBLUE was a solid winner when he returned home on December 12th. He looks like the main danger. (7) SHADOW MARGEAUX stayed game last time despite getting an impossible trip; consider for exotics at a price. (9) NEWBIE is worth a look debuting for Wallace.
Race 12
(9) JIMBELINA really hit her top stride in the Niagara series. She can take another here racing on or near the lead. (1) HOT SPOT HANOVER couldn't overcome a tough trip last time when 2nd to the choice. She should be closer here early which gives her a chance. (10) BERNADETTE should take a slice here, most likely by passing many of these late after taking back off the gate. (6) THREE DREAMS is a great one to use in the bottom exotics slots. (3) LADY JEN had a great record last year and she should kick off a new campaign by taking a share.
Meadowlands: Saturday 1/7 Analysis
By Derick Giwner
DRF
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
MEET STATS: 70 - 231 / $339.00 (-$123.00)
BEST BETS: 9 - 19 / $26.40 (-$11.60)
Best Bet: NEXT OF CAM (2nd)
Spot Play: TITUS SEELSTER (4th)
Race 1
(8) CITY PIE was rolling to the front when he made an uncharacteristic break last Saturday. Veteran campaigner is clearly sitting on a win, though there is a small chance that he isn’t 100% physically. (3) MADIBA MAGIC N made a bold move at 60-1 last time and paid the price. The class drop tonight along with a smoother trip can make him very competitive. (1) BUCKEYE IN CHARGE moves to the inside and I wouldn’t be shocked if driver Pollio decided to get more aggressive.
Race 2
(7) NEXT OF CAM was out every step of the mile last week and still paced steadily through the wire. He should prove tough against a lackluster group. (1) WITCHITA draws well again and should stick close for his usual nice check in an exotic spot. (10) CHILLN MATISSE raced well with Lasix added last time and only needs a reasonable trip from post 10 to menace. (2) THINKIN BIG is better than what we saw in his career debut; equipment changes?
Race 3
(8) RING WARRIOR shouldn’t face too much road trouble on his way to the front this week. If he can steal a decent half, he won’t look back. (1) MR BIG LOAD bumps up a notch off a good second last time and seems likely to push away fast from the inside. (3) MAJOR BUBBLES N bested the former last time and merits a look, but I fear the price will be shorter than deserved. (9) AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL has a string of in-the-money finishes to his credit and was able to hit the board 26 times in 38 starts last year.
Race 4
(6) TITUS SEELSTER was used pretty hard last Saturday in his first start since late October. The speedy son of Artistic Fella should be tighter now and looking down the road. (9) HILLBILLY HANOVER drops again in search of form and gets a driver change to Brett Miller; dangerous. (8) DOWNTHEHIGHWY battled with the top pick early before fading a week ago. He can do better with a smoother trip. (7) JACKSRLUCKYTOO puts himself in a hole each week while trying to close from the back of the pack. He catches a tough field for this class and seems like an exotic player only.
Race 5
(8) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE was out-kicked a week ago for one of the few times in the last couple of years. With loads of potential early speed signed on to this race, he can make amends and roll to the front just before the wire. (3) BARIMAH A finally draws a more favorable post and that should give driver John Campbell more options. (7) SPEED AGAIN picked up some confidence while down in class last time. I can’t say I love him in this spot, but I also can’t toss him. (5) WAR-N-MUNN could save ground and rally for a nice piece; using underneath. (9) DREAMLANDS ART has the class and could get brave at any time.
Race 6
(1) PANFORMATIVE was a solid second at this level after three months off but took a leisurely tour of the track from another outside post versus tougher last time. I’d be very surprised if he didn’t show up with a strong effort from post one. (3) ALEXIE MATTOSIE steps up off a powerful win. Millionaire has the back class to climb the ladder. (6) ASHLEY’S HUSBAND was parked every step behind a rated pace and finished willingly with no shot in his last start. Seven-year-old loves this NW11500 level and I’d be using him if you get double digit value. (5) DIAL OR NODIAL qualified back full of pace but may still need a start to get up to speed. (4) MOONWRITER ships in from Dover and should fit with this group.
Race 7
This race kicks off the pick four and despite coming back to it three separate times, I’m having trouble narrowing down the contenders. Very few in here would surprise me if they won. (6) DURANT makes his second start for new connections and should get a decent pace to rally into. (8) WINTER BLUES comes off a solid effort and adds a catch-driver this week. (3) SO TAKE THAT took advantage of a quick pace and circled the field. He seems likely to be the favorite and I can’t get myself to accept a short price on him. (4) FLYING COWBOY is certainly fast enough to win and will be a healthy price; missed four weeks, though. (1) UNIX HANOVER has big speed and a better post to work with this time.
Race 8
I’m going to take a flyer with (2) MISTER TRUTH here. He is racing well but caught a much tougher field while up in class last time. With a clean trip he could pull off an upset. (4) SASSY HANOVER and (7) RUFO have dangerous early speed. If one of them gets away with cheap fractions, watch out. (1) GAMBLER’S TALE should get away close from the cones and have a chance if he brings his best game.
Race 9
(4) STOLEN GLIMPSE was written into the race on the AE condition. While he appears to be off form, it is worth noting that all three of his wins and another trio of his six seconds were record on big tracks. (2) BLATANTLY BEST and (1) FITZ’S Z TAM are both at a winning level from good posts in a race that seems to lack a ton of early speed. (6) DAVID’S DREAM has been racing well of late.
Race 10
(3) JETSKI LOUIE won two starts back and was hung for his life last time. Gelding is clearly in form now and the addition of Brett Miller should prove meaningful. (8) MR BLISSFULL should be on the move early and is in good enough shape to take them a long way. (2) LEGION OF BOOM comes off a sharp first over effort; worth using. (1) SHIFT RIGHT drops in for a $15k tag and could show a bit more.
Race 11
(6) SHOREVIEW started to leave but was wrestled back to last in his first start since mid September. He wound up last on the rim and finished up willingly with no real shot. I have a feeling we’ll see more tonight and the price should be right. (9) PICK WICK came up with a career best mile from post 10 last Saturday and should prove strong again. (1) DASH OF DANGER continues to roll out the wins and overcame an early break to do it last time; obvious threat. (4) THE LIMIT HANOVER comes off a second-place finish and seems like a potential player in the wide exotics.
Race 12
(1) ROCK STAR dropped back down last week but couldn’t get involved from the outside post. While he’s far from a standout in here, he can get the job done with a good trip. (10) ROCKIN ROBERT came up a bit short after three weeks on the sidelines. He can overcome this post. (4) ANNIESWESTERNCARD drops down for Ron Burke and must be considered. (6) PRINCE PALANI couldn’t handle the winner in his recent qualifier but dug in nicely for second.
Race 13
(5) JACKSON BRADY was a solid second behind an odds-on favorite despite starting from post 10 last week. Driver change to Callahan can only help his chances. (2) BETTOR BELIEVE IT and (3) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY are two sharp Saratoga shippers worth consideration. (4) I’M THE REAL MAJOR tends to race consistently and should have a chance at the tri or super.
By Derick Giwner
DRF
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
MEET STATS: 70 - 231 / $339.00 (-$123.00)
BEST BETS: 9 - 19 / $26.40 (-$11.60)
Best Bet: NEXT OF CAM (2nd)
Spot Play: TITUS SEELSTER (4th)
Race 1
(8) CITY PIE was rolling to the front when he made an uncharacteristic break last Saturday. Veteran campaigner is clearly sitting on a win, though there is a small chance that he isn’t 100% physically. (3) MADIBA MAGIC N made a bold move at 60-1 last time and paid the price. The class drop tonight along with a smoother trip can make him very competitive. (1) BUCKEYE IN CHARGE moves to the inside and I wouldn’t be shocked if driver Pollio decided to get more aggressive.
Race 2
(7) NEXT OF CAM was out every step of the mile last week and still paced steadily through the wire. He should prove tough against a lackluster group. (1) WITCHITA draws well again and should stick close for his usual nice check in an exotic spot. (10) CHILLN MATISSE raced well with Lasix added last time and only needs a reasonable trip from post 10 to menace. (2) THINKIN BIG is better than what we saw in his career debut; equipment changes?
Race 3
(8) RING WARRIOR shouldn’t face too much road trouble on his way to the front this week. If he can steal a decent half, he won’t look back. (1) MR BIG LOAD bumps up a notch off a good second last time and seems likely to push away fast from the inside. (3) MAJOR BUBBLES N bested the former last time and merits a look, but I fear the price will be shorter than deserved. (9) AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL has a string of in-the-money finishes to his credit and was able to hit the board 26 times in 38 starts last year.
Race 4
(6) TITUS SEELSTER was used pretty hard last Saturday in his first start since late October. The speedy son of Artistic Fella should be tighter now and looking down the road. (9) HILLBILLY HANOVER drops again in search of form and gets a driver change to Brett Miller; dangerous. (8) DOWNTHEHIGHWY battled with the top pick early before fading a week ago. He can do better with a smoother trip. (7) JACKSRLUCKYTOO puts himself in a hole each week while trying to close from the back of the pack. He catches a tough field for this class and seems like an exotic player only.
Race 5
(8) K-LEES SHAKENBAKE was out-kicked a week ago for one of the few times in the last couple of years. With loads of potential early speed signed on to this race, he can make amends and roll to the front just before the wire. (3) BARIMAH A finally draws a more favorable post and that should give driver John Campbell more options. (7) SPEED AGAIN picked up some confidence while down in class last time. I can’t say I love him in this spot, but I also can’t toss him. (5) WAR-N-MUNN could save ground and rally for a nice piece; using underneath. (9) DREAMLANDS ART has the class and could get brave at any time.
Race 6
(1) PANFORMATIVE was a solid second at this level after three months off but took a leisurely tour of the track from another outside post versus tougher last time. I’d be very surprised if he didn’t show up with a strong effort from post one. (3) ALEXIE MATTOSIE steps up off a powerful win. Millionaire has the back class to climb the ladder. (6) ASHLEY’S HUSBAND was parked every step behind a rated pace and finished willingly with no shot in his last start. Seven-year-old loves this NW11500 level and I’d be using him if you get double digit value. (5) DIAL OR NODIAL qualified back full of pace but may still need a start to get up to speed. (4) MOONWRITER ships in from Dover and should fit with this group.
Race 7
This race kicks off the pick four and despite coming back to it three separate times, I’m having trouble narrowing down the contenders. Very few in here would surprise me if they won. (6) DURANT makes his second start for new connections and should get a decent pace to rally into. (8) WINTER BLUES comes off a solid effort and adds a catch-driver this week. (3) SO TAKE THAT took advantage of a quick pace and circled the field. He seems likely to be the favorite and I can’t get myself to accept a short price on him. (4) FLYING COWBOY is certainly fast enough to win and will be a healthy price; missed four weeks, though. (1) UNIX HANOVER has big speed and a better post to work with this time.
Race 8
I’m going to take a flyer with (2) MISTER TRUTH here. He is racing well but caught a much tougher field while up in class last time. With a clean trip he could pull off an upset. (4) SASSY HANOVER and (7) RUFO have dangerous early speed. If one of them gets away with cheap fractions, watch out. (1) GAMBLER’S TALE should get away close from the cones and have a chance if he brings his best game.
Race 9
(4) STOLEN GLIMPSE was written into the race on the AE condition. While he appears to be off form, it is worth noting that all three of his wins and another trio of his six seconds were record on big tracks. (2) BLATANTLY BEST and (1) FITZ’S Z TAM are both at a winning level from good posts in a race that seems to lack a ton of early speed. (6) DAVID’S DREAM has been racing well of late.
Race 10
(3) JETSKI LOUIE won two starts back and was hung for his life last time. Gelding is clearly in form now and the addition of Brett Miller should prove meaningful. (8) MR BLISSFULL should be on the move early and is in good enough shape to take them a long way. (2) LEGION OF BOOM comes off a sharp first over effort; worth using. (1) SHIFT RIGHT drops in for a $15k tag and could show a bit more.
Race 11
(6) SHOREVIEW started to leave but was wrestled back to last in his first start since mid September. He wound up last on the rim and finished up willingly with no real shot. I have a feeling we’ll see more tonight and the price should be right. (9) PICK WICK came up with a career best mile from post 10 last Saturday and should prove strong again. (1) DASH OF DANGER continues to roll out the wins and overcame an early break to do it last time; obvious threat. (4) THE LIMIT HANOVER comes off a second-place finish and seems like a potential player in the wide exotics.
Race 12
(1) ROCK STAR dropped back down last week but couldn’t get involved from the outside post. While he’s far from a standout in here, he can get the job done with a good trip. (10) ROCKIN ROBERT came up a bit short after three weeks on the sidelines. He can overcome this post. (4) ANNIESWESTERNCARD drops down for Ron Burke and must be considered. (6) PRINCE PALANI couldn’t handle the winner in his recent qualifier but dug in nicely for second.
Race 13
(5) JACKSON BRADY was a solid second behind an odds-on favorite despite starting from post 10 last week. Driver change to Callahan can only help his chances. (2) BETTOR BELIEVE IT and (3) MOVEOUTOFMYWAY are two sharp Saratoga shippers worth consideration. (4) I’M THE REAL MAJOR tends to race consistently and should have a chance at the tri or super.
Spot Plays
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (2nd) Stony Brook, 4-1
(9th) Blue Belt, 3-1
Delta Downs (6th) Sweet Pea Mama Ve, 3-1
(9th) Lotto Mary, 9-2
Fair Grounds (1st) Biblical Strength, 7-2
(8th) Broken Key, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (5th) Inner City, 7-2
(9th) Another Girl Alma, 8-1
Gulfstream Park (2nd) Gem Digger, 5-1
(10th) Sonic Mule, 6-1
Laurel (1st) Wagered, 4-1
(4th) Magician’scalendar, 5-1
Mahoning Valley (2nd) Team Halo, 4-1
(8th) Alertandlistening, 9-2
Parx Racing (2nd) Lucky Candy, 8-1
(4th) Bertranda, 3-1
Penn National (3rd) Little Fat Albert, 6-1
(6th) Empty Prize, 6-1
Santa Anita (5th) Empire Ruler, 6-1
(6th) Zinvor, 4-1
Sunland Park (6th) Storming Back, 9-2
(9th) California Song, 4-1
Tampa Bay Downs (2nd) Travel Required, 6-1
(9th) Testaruda, 7-2
Turf Paradise (3rd) Awe So Suite, 4-1
(6th) Bottle Dance, 6-1
Turfway Park (6th) Susie Bee, 3-1
(9th) Warrior Prince, 4-1
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Aqueduct (2nd) Stony Brook, 4-1
(9th) Blue Belt, 3-1
Delta Downs (6th) Sweet Pea Mama Ve, 3-1
(9th) Lotto Mary, 9-2
Fair Grounds (1st) Biblical Strength, 7-2
(8th) Broken Key, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (5th) Inner City, 7-2
(9th) Another Girl Alma, 8-1
Gulfstream Park (2nd) Gem Digger, 5-1
(10th) Sonic Mule, 6-1
Laurel (1st) Wagered, 4-1
(4th) Magician’scalendar, 5-1
Mahoning Valley (2nd) Team Halo, 4-1
(8th) Alertandlistening, 9-2
Parx Racing (2nd) Lucky Candy, 8-1
(4th) Bertranda, 3-1
Penn National (3rd) Little Fat Albert, 6-1
(6th) Empty Prize, 6-1
Santa Anita (5th) Empire Ruler, 6-1
(6th) Zinvor, 4-1
Sunland Park (6th) Storming Back, 9-2
(9th) California Song, 4-1
Tampa Bay Downs (2nd) Travel Required, 6-1
(9th) Testaruda, 7-2
Turf Paradise (3rd) Awe So Suite, 4-1
(6th) Bottle Dance, 6-1
Turfway Park (6th) Susie Bee, 3-1
(9th) Warrior Prince, 4-1
