At the Gate - Saturday
By Mike Dempsey
It is just two weeks until the Breeders’ Cup, and while most of the top horses are at Santa Anita or getting their final preparations out of the way before shipping there, we do have plenty of great betting action on tap on Saturday.
It is Empire Showcase Day in New York, with an all state bred card of 11 races including eight stakes, with purses worth more than $1.75 million.
The fall Keeneland meeting is winding down, and we have a competitive feature, the $250,000 Lexus Raven Run (G2) for three-year-old fillies that drew a field of 12 that go seven furlongs on the main track.
I suppose it’s possible we could see a filly run big and come back in two weeks to go in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1).
Lightstream is the 3-1 morning line favorite for trainer Brian Lynch. The filly was a game second in the Test (G1) at Saratoga in her last outing.
The Belmont Park card is really good despite a couple of short fields One of the toughest races for me to figure out is the $200,000 Mohawk at 1 1/16 miles on the inner turf.
Turf veterans Kharafa, Lubash and King Kreesa have squared off more times than I can count. King Kreesa won the Mohawk in 2013, while Lubash won the race last year.
I am leaning toward Kharafa getting the job done again, but look out for relative newcomer Offering Plan, who has a shot of upsetting the trio.
Here is the opening race from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:
BEL Race 1 Alw $62,000N1X (12:25 ET)
#2 Deuces High 4-1
#7 Born for a Storm 8-5
#1 Wine Not 5-2
#3 We Did 8-1
Analysis: Deuces High set the early fractions and could not hold off the winner late in a runner up finish last out in the mud, down along the inside much of the trip on a day the outer paths were best. The cut back to a one turn mile should suit this Violette trainee. He broke his maiden here three back in his debut at the distance.
Born for a Storm tracked the early pace toward the outside and finished evenly while unable to get to the winner in a runner up finish last out as the beaten chalk. He broke his maiden two back at the Spa going 6 1/2 furlongs in his third career start. He should be tighter in his second start trying to get a mile for Brown. His best makes him tough but our top pick is going to offer a bit more value for the top spot.
Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 2,7 / 1,2,3,7
TRI: 2,7 / 1,2,3,7 / 1,2,3,6,7
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:
BEL Race 10 The Empire Classic (5:19 ET)
#6 Royal Posse 3-1
#2 Governor Malibu 2-1
#1 Wake Up in Malibu 4-1
#9 Empire Dreams 10-1
Analysis: Royal Posse ran second in this race last year and is coming in off a sharp win in the state bred Evan Shipman last out and earned a career top two back winning the restricted Alydar, both trips at the Spa going nine furlongs. He has run well here a swell, landing in the exacta in 7 of 8 trips. It's tough to knock anything RRod has been sending out recently, the barn hitting at a 30% clip at the meeting.
Governor Malibu has fit in graded stakes company, running second in the Jim Dandy (G2) back in July and the Peter Pan (G2) in May. He returned to the state bred ranks last out and trounced second level optional claimers. He appears to be coming into this race off a sharp prep but his price is going to be on the light side.
Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 2,6 / 1,2,6,9
TRI: 2,6 / 1,2,6,9 / 1,2,5,6,9
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Keeneland:
KEE Race 9 The Raven Run G2 (5:30 ET)
#12 Lightstream 3-1
#11 Takrees 12-1
#10 Sophia's Song 5-1
#6 Bellamentary 6-1
Analysis: Lightstream stalked the early pace and came with a good late rally to finish in the runner up spot in the Test (G1) last out at the Spa behind a 55-1 bomb. The filly won her first three career starts including the Beaumont (G3) here at the spring meeting. The Lynch barn is 15% winners (with a +ROI) with runners coming back off a 61-180 day layoff. She has been working steadily for her return off the break and should work out a good trip breaking from the far outside.
Takrees was outrun early while saving ground and came with a wide rally to finish third last out in the prioress (G3) at the Spa going six furlongs. She caught a racing strip that was kind to inside speed that day. She makes her third start since May and appears to be getting good right now. The McLaughlin trainee should end up going off at a generous price.
Sophia's Song made a good late rally to finish close up third in the Charles Town Oaks (G3). She won the Caesar's Wish three back at Laurel Park going a one turn mile. She will be closer to the pace here exciting the bull ring in West Virginia and the blinkers come off. This is her third start off a five-month layoff.
Wagering
WIN: #12 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 11,12 / 6,10,11,12
TRI: 11,12 / 6,10,11,12 / 4,6,10,11,12
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.
Keeneland
R1: #1 Luvthatmustang 10-1
R4: #7 Score babe 8-1
R5: #9 One Dollar 8-1
R5: #2 Sneaky Betty 8-1
R6: #7 Tamit 8-1
R6: #2 Court of Love 12-1
R8: #9 Financial Modeling 8-1
R9: #11 Takrees 12-1
Good luck today!
By Mike Dempsey
It is just two weeks until the Breeders’ Cup, and while most of the top horses are at Santa Anita or getting their final preparations out of the way before shipping there, we do have plenty of great betting action on tap on Saturday.
It is Empire Showcase Day in New York, with an all state bred card of 11 races including eight stakes, with purses worth more than $1.75 million.
The fall Keeneland meeting is winding down, and we have a competitive feature, the $250,000 Lexus Raven Run (G2) for three-year-old fillies that drew a field of 12 that go seven furlongs on the main track.
I suppose it’s possible we could see a filly run big and come back in two weeks to go in the $1 million Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Sprint (G1).
Lightstream is the 3-1 morning line favorite for trainer Brian Lynch. The filly was a game second in the Test (G1) at Saratoga in her last outing.
The Belmont Park card is really good despite a couple of short fields One of the toughest races for me to figure out is the $200,000 Mohawk at 1 1/16 miles on the inner turf.
Turf veterans Kharafa, Lubash and King Kreesa have squared off more times than I can count. King Kreesa won the Mohawk in 2013, while Lubash won the race last year.
I am leaning toward Kharafa getting the job done again, but look out for relative newcomer Offering Plan, who has a shot of upsetting the trio.
Here is the opening race from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:
BEL Race 1 Alw $62,000N1X (12:25 ET)
#2 Deuces High 4-1
#7 Born for a Storm 8-5
#1 Wine Not 5-2
#3 We Did 8-1
Analysis: Deuces High set the early fractions and could not hold off the winner late in a runner up finish last out in the mud, down along the inside much of the trip on a day the outer paths were best. The cut back to a one turn mile should suit this Violette trainee. He broke his maiden here three back in his debut at the distance.
Born for a Storm tracked the early pace toward the outside and finished evenly while unable to get to the winner in a runner up finish last out as the beaten chalk. He broke his maiden two back at the Spa going 6 1/2 furlongs in his third career start. He should be tighter in his second start trying to get a mile for Brown. His best makes him tough but our top pick is going to offer a bit more value for the top spot.
Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 2,7 / 1,2,3,7
TRI: 2,7 / 1,2,3,7 / 1,2,3,6,7
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Belmont Park:
BEL Race 10 The Empire Classic (5:19 ET)
#6 Royal Posse 3-1
#2 Governor Malibu 2-1
#1 Wake Up in Malibu 4-1
#9 Empire Dreams 10-1
Analysis: Royal Posse ran second in this race last year and is coming in off a sharp win in the state bred Evan Shipman last out and earned a career top two back winning the restricted Alydar, both trips at the Spa going nine furlongs. He has run well here a swell, landing in the exacta in 7 of 8 trips. It's tough to knock anything RRod has been sending out recently, the barn hitting at a 30% clip at the meeting.
Governor Malibu has fit in graded stakes company, running second in the Jim Dandy (G2) back in July and the Peter Pan (G2) in May. He returned to the state bred ranks last out and trounced second level optional claimers. He appears to be coming into this race off a sharp prep but his price is going to be on the light side.
Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 2,6 / 1,2,6,9
TRI: 2,6 / 1,2,6,9 / 1,2,5,6,9
Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Keeneland:
KEE Race 9 The Raven Run G2 (5:30 ET)
#12 Lightstream 3-1
#11 Takrees 12-1
#10 Sophia's Song 5-1
#6 Bellamentary 6-1
Analysis: Lightstream stalked the early pace and came with a good late rally to finish in the runner up spot in the Test (G1) last out at the Spa behind a 55-1 bomb. The filly won her first three career starts including the Beaumont (G3) here at the spring meeting. The Lynch barn is 15% winners (with a +ROI) with runners coming back off a 61-180 day layoff. She has been working steadily for her return off the break and should work out a good trip breaking from the far outside.
Takrees was outrun early while saving ground and came with a wide rally to finish third last out in the prioress (G3) at the Spa going six furlongs. She caught a racing strip that was kind to inside speed that day. She makes her third start since May and appears to be getting good right now. The McLaughlin trainee should end up going off at a generous price.
Sophia's Song made a good late rally to finish close up third in the Charles Town Oaks (G3). She won the Caesar's Wish three back at Laurel Park going a one turn mile. She will be closer to the pace here exciting the bull ring in West Virginia and the blinkers come off. This is her third start off a five-month layoff.
Wagering
WIN: #12 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 11,12 / 6,10,11,12
TRI: 11,12 / 6,10,11,12 / 4,6,10,11,12
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.
Keeneland
R1: #1 Luvthatmustang 10-1
R4: #7 Score babe 8-1
R5: #9 One Dollar 8-1
R5: #2 Sneaky Betty 8-1
R6: #7 Tamit 8-1
R6: #2 Court of Love 12-1
R8: #9 Financial Modeling 8-1
R9: #11 Takrees 12-1
Good luck today!
Yonkers: Saturday 10/22 Analysis
By Matt Rose
DRF
MEET STATS: 363 - 1076 / $1,998.60
BEST BETS: 48 - 88 / $158.60
Best Bet: SANTA FE BEACHBOY (12th)
Spot Play: TAKE IT BACK TERRY (5th)
Race 1
(4) THESEYESRCRYING has raced pretty well in all recent efforts and the veteran could be a speed threat in a race full of question marks. (2) IN THE ARSENAL looked ready to break through two back but followed that up with an awful effort; who knows what to expect. (5) FOOL ME ONCE hasn't been at his best recently but he's proven at this level.
Race 2
(3) LORD OF MISRULE just missed in his last two tries at this level and he can be close enough to strike from this spot. (4) MAH SISH N is better than he's been showing and should offer good value. (2) FIERY LUSTRE N had zero excuse last out but that was against better; Bartlett sticks with him.
Race 3
(4) MOONLITEONTHEBEACH always gives a good accounting of himself and could strike late off a hot pace. (5) ROCK ON MOE fired to the lead and was dead-game in victory last week; could certainly repeat. (3) CASIMIR JITTERBUG returns locally off a win at Pocono and he's more than capable with these.
Race 4
(6) BETTOREVER was used really hard trying to secure position last out but had to take back to third anyway then was shuffled and boxed; his prior effort he came up a bit flat but the Bamond trainee has done well versus better in the past and he deserves top billing. (4) TWIN B IMPRESSIVE blew away cheaper two back. (3) OH JONNY B GOOD N drops in class, draws decently enough and could be a closing threat.
Race 5
(3) TAKE IT BACK TERRY went a huge uncovered effort last week when first time Lasix; classy Burke trainee can repeat despite stepping up in class. (7) KEYSTONE VELOCITY was underwhelming in that Invitational last week, his debut for Allard after the high-priced purchase. He can be more involved tonight. (4) THE REAL ONE is very sharp and is proven at this level.
Race 6
(6) NOT AFRAID was used a bit in the early stages last out and came up flat late at odds-on; Takter trainee is arguably best here and the price will be much more attractive tonight. (4) MONROE COUNTY raced very well last week in that added-distance event. (3) DOT DOT DOT DASH was nailed on the wire last out after enjoying a live trip.
Race 7
(3) LUMINOSITY was going nowhere from the back of the pack in the Invitational last week but he was a wire-to-wire winner the start prior; he's got a post edge here on his main rivals. (7) MELADY'S MONET was dead-game last week to be second best to Bee A Magician; problem here is the outside post. (5) MAJOR ATHENS toured the track last week in a needed start and he'll offer some value with Bartlett opting off.
Race 8
(7) ROCK N ROLL WORLD put it all together last week and was a dominating winner; 4-year-old can come right back. (8) BLOOD BROTHER has loads of talent but is stuck outside again and failed to get involved in his last two starts from poor posts. (3) MCARDLES LIGHTNING seems capable at this level.
Race 9
Against better judgment I'm selecting (3) FOILED AGAIN. The old man wasn't as bad as it looked last week, as very few would have overcome that grind into the rated pace. With the right setup he can still get it done. (2) TE KAWAU N raced well at big odds off the layoff and he's a big threat from this spot. (4) RAMPAGE JACKSON is as game as they come but the former basement claimer has his work cut out for him against these tonight.
Race 10
(2) SOMEWHERE FANCY gets needed post relief after closing well from too far back in his last two; Allard trainee looms large from this spot. (1) RONNY BUGATTI drops in class, draws best and is a player. (4) FAMEOUS WESTERN raced well last out versus one notch lesser; he has a shot to hit the ticket.
Race 11
(6) MONEY MAVEN was an easy winner at this level three back with Bartlett driving. (4) ZOOMING has raced much better in his last three; threat. (1) PIERCEWAVE HANOVER could land a share if he minds his manners early.
Race 12
(5) SANTA FE BEACHBOY has looked very good beating lesser in his last two; Banca trainee is sharp enough to take another. (1) SAPPHIRE CITY had no real excuse last week flattening out in the late stages; clearly he's better than that. (2) DREAM OUT LOUD N draws well again and should be close up throughout.
By Matt Rose
DRF
MEET STATS: 363 - 1076 / $1,998.60
BEST BETS: 48 - 88 / $158.60
Best Bet: SANTA FE BEACHBOY (12th)
Spot Play: TAKE IT BACK TERRY (5th)
Race 1
(4) THESEYESRCRYING has raced pretty well in all recent efforts and the veteran could be a speed threat in a race full of question marks. (2) IN THE ARSENAL looked ready to break through two back but followed that up with an awful effort; who knows what to expect. (5) FOOL ME ONCE hasn't been at his best recently but he's proven at this level.
Race 2
(3) LORD OF MISRULE just missed in his last two tries at this level and he can be close enough to strike from this spot. (4) MAH SISH N is better than he's been showing and should offer good value. (2) FIERY LUSTRE N had zero excuse last out but that was against better; Bartlett sticks with him.
Race 3
(4) MOONLITEONTHEBEACH always gives a good accounting of himself and could strike late off a hot pace. (5) ROCK ON MOE fired to the lead and was dead-game in victory last week; could certainly repeat. (3) CASIMIR JITTERBUG returns locally off a win at Pocono and he's more than capable with these.
Race 4
(6) BETTOREVER was used really hard trying to secure position last out but had to take back to third anyway then was shuffled and boxed; his prior effort he came up a bit flat but the Bamond trainee has done well versus better in the past and he deserves top billing. (4) TWIN B IMPRESSIVE blew away cheaper two back. (3) OH JONNY B GOOD N drops in class, draws decently enough and could be a closing threat.
Race 5
(3) TAKE IT BACK TERRY went a huge uncovered effort last week when first time Lasix; classy Burke trainee can repeat despite stepping up in class. (7) KEYSTONE VELOCITY was underwhelming in that Invitational last week, his debut for Allard after the high-priced purchase. He can be more involved tonight. (4) THE REAL ONE is very sharp and is proven at this level.
Race 6
(6) NOT AFRAID was used a bit in the early stages last out and came up flat late at odds-on; Takter trainee is arguably best here and the price will be much more attractive tonight. (4) MONROE COUNTY raced very well last week in that added-distance event. (3) DOT DOT DOT DASH was nailed on the wire last out after enjoying a live trip.
Race 7
(3) LUMINOSITY was going nowhere from the back of the pack in the Invitational last week but he was a wire-to-wire winner the start prior; he's got a post edge here on his main rivals. (7) MELADY'S MONET was dead-game last week to be second best to Bee A Magician; problem here is the outside post. (5) MAJOR ATHENS toured the track last week in a needed start and he'll offer some value with Bartlett opting off.
Race 8
(7) ROCK N ROLL WORLD put it all together last week and was a dominating winner; 4-year-old can come right back. (8) BLOOD BROTHER has loads of talent but is stuck outside again and failed to get involved in his last two starts from poor posts. (3) MCARDLES LIGHTNING seems capable at this level.
Race 9
Against better judgment I'm selecting (3) FOILED AGAIN. The old man wasn't as bad as it looked last week, as very few would have overcome that grind into the rated pace. With the right setup he can still get it done. (2) TE KAWAU N raced well at big odds off the layoff and he's a big threat from this spot. (4) RAMPAGE JACKSON is as game as they come but the former basement claimer has his work cut out for him against these tonight.
Race 10
(2) SOMEWHERE FANCY gets needed post relief after closing well from too far back in his last two; Allard trainee looms large from this spot. (1) RONNY BUGATTI drops in class, draws best and is a player. (4) FAMEOUS WESTERN raced well last out versus one notch lesser; he has a shot to hit the ticket.
Race 11
(6) MONEY MAVEN was an easy winner at this level three back with Bartlett driving. (4) ZOOMING has raced much better in his last three; threat. (1) PIERCEWAVE HANOVER could land a share if he minds his manners early.
Race 12
(5) SANTA FE BEACHBOY has looked very good beating lesser in his last two; Banca trainee is sharp enough to take another. (1) SAPPHIRE CITY had no real excuse last week flattening out in the late stages; clearly he's better than that. (2) DREAM OUT LOUD N draws well again and should be close up throughout.
Mohawk: Saturday 10/22 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
PICK 5: 2,3/3/1,2,4,5,7/1,2,4,7/1,4,5 = $24
EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,4,7/1,4,5/1,3/1,6 = $48
LATE PICK 4: 1,2,6/2,3,5/1,3,7/1,9 = $54
MEET STATS: 434 - 1280 / $2265.80 BEST BETS: 69 - 117 / $215.70
SPOT PLAYS: 28 - 117 / $179.10
Best Bet: SHAMBALLA (2nd)
Spot Play: DARCEE N (4th)
Race 1
(2) DREAMFAIR MESA had a nightmarish trip last week yet still only lost by less than 3 lengths. He can lay a bit closer here and avoid being parked most of the way; slight nod. (3) JACK RACKHAM is another that can be expected to sit closer to the lead this time, which gives him a much better chance. (5) REDONKULOUS has raced well in every start since shipping east; consider. (6) PERFECT VISTA faces easier here and he should be able to hit the ticket vs. this group.
Race 2
(3) SHAMBALLA is hard to go against here exiting the fastest mile in history - which he himself had a big hand in. He should handle these. (1) EVENIN OF PLEASURE will sit his typical good trip here and take a big share. (2) ELLIS PARK will also probably sit a nice following trip and make the ticket. (6) NICKLE BAG can pass a couple of these late for a slice.
Race 3
(5) MURMUR HANOVER drops to face easier here and he should be right there vs. these leaving from a good post. (7) DIA MONDE trotted a 27 2/5 third 1/4 in the Superfinal which took its toll late. He is sharp and dangerous. (2) LADY PING is capable of passing them all on her best day and she is almost always sent off at a good price. (1) NEILS GOLDEN GIRL should carve out a nice following trip here and take a share.
Race 4
(2) DARCEE N paced his own back 1/2 in 53 2/5 last week and still couldn't threaten the winner, who was taking a new life's mark. He should be able to pass most or all of these late if given a reasonable trip. (7) ROCKIN IN HEAVEN drops again and figures, but he needs to avoid going first up. (4) ERLE DALE N won ugly last week, drifting out several lanes down the stretch. I'll play to beat him here. (1) MACH CODE is worth a look coming in off a sharp qualifier. He has raced well off breaks previously.
Race 5
(3) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE should be a bit closer early here, get a solid pace to chase and he should be a square price; slight nod. (4) RISE UP NOW exits a rapid mile where he was on the limb in the second 1/2 with the pace not slowing at all. He can go much better here. (1) DUC DORLEANS is an obvious threat on paper, but how low of a price would you take with him showing a month gap between starts? (6) YORK SEELSTER comes off a sharp win but he will likely find these to be much tougher.
Race 6
(1) CATCH THE DREAM drops, moves inside and stands a good chance to pop here. (3) NAHAR should be right there if he can stay trotting this time. (6) ETRUSCAN HANOVER can get a better trip here and he should be a threat. (8) RUBBER DUCK has been racing well every week for a while. He is another that merits a look and he should bring a good price.
Race 7
(6) BLAYDE HANOVER will likely take a stalking/closing approach here and there should be plenty of speed on early to help his cause; top call. (1) BUDDHA BLUE CHIP figures on the drop but he's missed 5 weeks. Perhaps check how the same trainer does with the #1 horse in race 5 off a similar break. (7) VEGAS ROCKS and (8) AUDREYS DREAM should be winding up from the backfield turning for home and either could get there late if the early pace is fast enough.
Race 8
(1) DREAMY FELLA should beat one or two of these off the gate which will make his task easier this time; top call. (2) MACH POWER had no chance last time when interfered with on the backside. He should rebound here and can take this with a trip. (6) MAYFIELD DUKE is sharp and he gets a better post to work with here; using. (3) BAD GAMER can follow along and take a share, as he usually does.
Race 9
(5) DELIGHTFUL HILL should be a big threat from close range here facing a bit easier. (3) MS MAC N CHEESE looks tough in here too, but she is an infrequent winner that is more apt to take a slice. (2) OUR HOT MAJORETTE may have slowed the pace too much last week which played into the pocket-sitter's hand. She could try to bottom these out this time. (7) STORM POINT should be along late for a share.
Race 10
(1) EASY LOVER HANOVER stands an excellent chance of sitting another perfect pocket trip here so I'll give him the call to repeat. (7) ALEXAS JACKPOT fired a lifetime-best mile last week and he will likely employ the same tactics, but he could set the table for the choice this time around. (3) TRACEUR HANOVER closed like a jet two back to blow by the field like they were all tied to a post in the stretch then raced evenly in the top class. He is another to consider for the late Pick 4. (6) CONTINUAL HANOVER continues to race well and he should grab another share here.
Race 11
(1) SPINFINITI has raced well in both starts here and he should get a good trip here; slight nod in a tough finale. (9) SHADOW MARGEAUX is worth a look at a price here going for Puddy for the first time. (3) SINGLE WHITE SOCK should appreciate the slight class drop and make the ticket here. (4) DIALAMARA will be an early pace presence and he could stick around if he gets a breather at some point. (10) BOOMBOOM BALLYKEEL figures in this class but post 10 will likely relegate him to a smaller award.
By Garnet Barnsdale
DRF
Race 1 - $30,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool
Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool
PICK 5: 2,3/3/1,2,4,5,7/1,2,4,7/1,4,5 = $24
EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,4,7/1,4,5/1,3/1,6 = $48
LATE PICK 4: 1,2,6/2,3,5/1,3,7/1,9 = $54
MEET STATS: 434 - 1280 / $2265.80 BEST BETS: 69 - 117 / $215.70
SPOT PLAYS: 28 - 117 / $179.10
Best Bet: SHAMBALLA (2nd)
Spot Play: DARCEE N (4th)
Race 1
(2) DREAMFAIR MESA had a nightmarish trip last week yet still only lost by less than 3 lengths. He can lay a bit closer here and avoid being parked most of the way; slight nod. (3) JACK RACKHAM is another that can be expected to sit closer to the lead this time, which gives him a much better chance. (5) REDONKULOUS has raced well in every start since shipping east; consider. (6) PERFECT VISTA faces easier here and he should be able to hit the ticket vs. this group.
Race 2
(3) SHAMBALLA is hard to go against here exiting the fastest mile in history - which he himself had a big hand in. He should handle these. (1) EVENIN OF PLEASURE will sit his typical good trip here and take a big share. (2) ELLIS PARK will also probably sit a nice following trip and make the ticket. (6) NICKLE BAG can pass a couple of these late for a slice.
Race 3
(5) MURMUR HANOVER drops to face easier here and he should be right there vs. these leaving from a good post. (7) DIA MONDE trotted a 27 2/5 third 1/4 in the Superfinal which took its toll late. He is sharp and dangerous. (2) LADY PING is capable of passing them all on her best day and she is almost always sent off at a good price. (1) NEILS GOLDEN GIRL should carve out a nice following trip here and take a share.
Race 4
(2) DARCEE N paced his own back 1/2 in 53 2/5 last week and still couldn't threaten the winner, who was taking a new life's mark. He should be able to pass most or all of these late if given a reasonable trip. (7) ROCKIN IN HEAVEN drops again and figures, but he needs to avoid going first up. (4) ERLE DALE N won ugly last week, drifting out several lanes down the stretch. I'll play to beat him here. (1) MACH CODE is worth a look coming in off a sharp qualifier. He has raced well off breaks previously.
Race 5
(3) CASIMIR OVERDRIVE should be a bit closer early here, get a solid pace to chase and he should be a square price; slight nod. (4) RISE UP NOW exits a rapid mile where he was on the limb in the second 1/2 with the pace not slowing at all. He can go much better here. (1) DUC DORLEANS is an obvious threat on paper, but how low of a price would you take with him showing a month gap between starts? (6) YORK SEELSTER comes off a sharp win but he will likely find these to be much tougher.
Race 6
(1) CATCH THE DREAM drops, moves inside and stands a good chance to pop here. (3) NAHAR should be right there if he can stay trotting this time. (6) ETRUSCAN HANOVER can get a better trip here and he should be a threat. (8) RUBBER DUCK has been racing well every week for a while. He is another that merits a look and he should bring a good price.
Race 7
(6) BLAYDE HANOVER will likely take a stalking/closing approach here and there should be plenty of speed on early to help his cause; top call. (1) BUDDHA BLUE CHIP figures on the drop but he's missed 5 weeks. Perhaps check how the same trainer does with the #1 horse in race 5 off a similar break. (7) VEGAS ROCKS and (8) AUDREYS DREAM should be winding up from the backfield turning for home and either could get there late if the early pace is fast enough.
Race 8
(1) DREAMY FELLA should beat one or two of these off the gate which will make his task easier this time; top call. (2) MACH POWER had no chance last time when interfered with on the backside. He should rebound here and can take this with a trip. (6) MAYFIELD DUKE is sharp and he gets a better post to work with here; using. (3) BAD GAMER can follow along and take a share, as he usually does.
Race 9
(5) DELIGHTFUL HILL should be a big threat from close range here facing a bit easier. (3) MS MAC N CHEESE looks tough in here too, but she is an infrequent winner that is more apt to take a slice. (2) OUR HOT MAJORETTE may have slowed the pace too much last week which played into the pocket-sitter's hand. She could try to bottom these out this time. (7) STORM POINT should be along late for a share.
Race 10
(1) EASY LOVER HANOVER stands an excellent chance of sitting another perfect pocket trip here so I'll give him the call to repeat. (7) ALEXAS JACKPOT fired a lifetime-best mile last week and he will likely employ the same tactics, but he could set the table for the choice this time around. (3) TRACEUR HANOVER closed like a jet two back to blow by the field like they were all tied to a post in the stretch then raced evenly in the top class. He is another to consider for the late Pick 4. (6) CONTINUAL HANOVER continues to race well and he should grab another share here.
Race 11
(1) SPINFINITI has raced well in both starts here and he should get a good trip here; slight nod in a tough finale. (9) SHADOW MARGEAUX is worth a look at a price here going for Puddy for the first time. (3) SINGLE WHITE SOCK should appreciate the slight class drop and make the ticket here. (4) DIALAMARA will be an early pace presence and he could stick around if he gets a breather at some point. (10) BOOMBOOM BALLYKEEL figures in this class but post 10 will likely relegate him to a smaller award.
SPOT PLAYS
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Belmont Park (2nd) Divine Cause, 7-2
(5th) Bonita Bianca, 7-2
Charles Town (1st) Forest Night, 4-1
(6th) Noble Prince, 4-1
Delta Downs (3rd) Jonny's Emerald, 4-1
(11th) A P Zapper, 8-1
Finger Lakes (2nd) Heavy Hitter, 6-1
(9th) Whitegate, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (6th) Sandy's Journey, 6-1
(9th Rob'spepperedride, 5-1
Gulfstream Park West (6th) Ima Tornado, 6-1
(9th) Minute Madness, 7-2
Hawthorne (1st) Name It After Me, 3-1
(9th) Fashionably Late, 3-1
Keeneland (7th) December Seven, 3-1
(10th) Orient Harbor, 5-1
Laurel (4th) Phantom Shot, 9-2
(9th) Rocky Policy, 3-1
Mountaineer (3rd) Boy of Summer, 4-1
(7th) Sheer Talent, 3-1
Parx Racing (1st) Cochita Rich, 9-2
(4th) Happiest Ending, 5-1
Penn National (1st) Win Tuscany, 3-1
(8th) North Forest Star, 9-2
Remington Park (3rd) L. A. Freeway, 8-1
(7th) Malibu Maid, 3-1
Retama Park (1st) L'Argour, 7-2
(8th) Prada's Bling, 3-1
Santa Anita (5th) Sheer Flattery, 4-1
(8th) The Gomper, 8-1
Thistledown (1st) Baba Booey, 7-2
(7th) Kentucky Breeze, 7-2
Woodbine (2nd) Redwin Romp, 6-1
(7th) Empyrea, 3-1
For Saturday
TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE
Belmont Park (2nd) Divine Cause, 7-2
(5th) Bonita Bianca, 7-2
Charles Town (1st) Forest Night, 4-1
(6th) Noble Prince, 4-1
Delta Downs (3rd) Jonny's Emerald, 4-1
(11th) A P Zapper, 8-1
Finger Lakes (2nd) Heavy Hitter, 6-1
(9th) Whitegate, 7-2
Golden Gate Fields (6th) Sandy's Journey, 6-1
(9th Rob'spepperedride, 5-1
Gulfstream Park West (6th) Ima Tornado, 6-1
(9th) Minute Madness, 7-2
Hawthorne (1st) Name It After Me, 3-1
(9th) Fashionably Late, 3-1
Keeneland (7th) December Seven, 3-1
(10th) Orient Harbor, 5-1
Laurel (4th) Phantom Shot, 9-2
(9th) Rocky Policy, 3-1
Mountaineer (3rd) Boy of Summer, 4-1
(7th) Sheer Talent, 3-1
Parx Racing (1st) Cochita Rich, 9-2
(4th) Happiest Ending, 5-1
Penn National (1st) Win Tuscany, 3-1
(8th) North Forest Star, 9-2
Remington Park (3rd) L. A. Freeway, 8-1
(7th) Malibu Maid, 3-1
Retama Park (1st) L'Argour, 7-2
(8th) Prada's Bling, 3-1
Santa Anita (5th) Sheer Flattery, 4-1
(8th) The Gomper, 8-1
Thistledown (1st) Baba Booey, 7-2
(7th) Kentucky Breeze, 7-2
Woodbine (2nd) Redwin Romp, 6-1
(7th) Empyrea, 3-1
Meadowlands: Saturday 10/22 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: 0 - 0 / $0.00
BEST BETS: 0 - 0 / $0.00
Best Bet: WALNER (1st)
Spot Play: BILL’S MAN (9th)
Race 1
(5) WALNER has proven himself to be the best 2-year-old trotting colt in North America. It will take a mammoth effort from one of his foes or a poor race on his part to lose. (1) DEVIOUS MAN proved game at the Red Mile to continue his long losing streak. We’ll get to see how good he really is against this group. (7) NEW JERSEY VIKING has ability but needs to be a bit faster to win.
Race 2
(8) HUNTSVILLE couldn’t have been more impressive when winning in 1:49 in Kentucky two weeks ago. There is no doubt in my mind that he is the horse to beat for the Crown in this division. (2) OCEAN COLONY was scratched last time with a slight fever. The Jimmy Takter-trained colt has talent and can step up. (5) MCTHRILLER seems to be a step behind the top ones but has form on his side.
Race 3
(5) DARLINONTHEBEACH and (6) PURE COUNTRY are the clear leaders among 3-year-old pacing fillies. I’ll give a slight edge to the former because she has a post edge. (4) CALL ME QUEEN BE has dangerous early speed.
Race 4
(7) ROARING TO GO absolutely loved the big track in Lexington and now gets a chance to carry that success over to The Meadowlands. Art Major-sired filly is fast off the gate and should offer fair value. (8) IDYLLIC BEACH is widely considered to be the divisional leader and deserves plenty of respect. (2) AGENT Q seems to be one of those dangerous tricky horses which follow great and can take you down if you show signs of weakness. (1) BRAZUCA has won four straight and gets tested for class now.
Race 5
(2) ALL THE TIME makes her first start since colic surgery and certainly qualified back strongly. Unless she is odds-on, I’m on board with her on the win end. (5) CAPRICE HILL disappointed in Canada last time but did miss four weeks prior to that start. I’m willing to forgive that effort and assume she’ll be sharper tonight. (8) NON STICK is the New York champion. Let’s see how he does when stretching out on the bigger oval.
Race 6
(5) BOSTON RED ROCKS has recently built up his confidence while taking on weaker foes. Breeders Crown champion from 2015 looks like a fresh horse ready to take on some more weary warriors. I’ve always liked (1) RACING HILL, but you can’t be thrilled with his recent performances despite a win last time out. Perhaps he still has more in the tank but I need to see a big effort to back him at short odds. (8) LYONS SNYDER is capable of a big mile but hasn’t shown it often enough to trust him. (7) CHECK SIX has the ability to win races if none of these brings their best mile; very consistent.
Race 7
(8) SUTTON does his best work on the engine and was strangely raced from off the pace last time. I expect a major correction this week with serious speed from the start. (3) SOUTHWIND FRANK put in his best race in quite some time (with a flat tire) despite losing in the Kentucky Futurity. Perhaps the real Frank is finally back. (2) MARION MARAUDER is hard to fault as the sport’s newest Triple Crown winner; clear player.
Race 8
(7) SOMEOMENSOMEWHERE has picked up his game in a big way with Lasix added. This elimination came up soft and I see no reason why she can’t continue her recent success. (5) TORI HANOVER motored home last time versus softer competition. Perhaps this well-bred daughter of Trim Hanover is ready to show her best now. (4) ROCKETTE chased the top choice in her last start and could be doing so once again.
Race 9
(2) BILL’S MAN clearly got into the weaker division. John Butenschoen trainee is moving in the right direction now and only needs to behave to win. (5) JAKE comes into town for a decent trotting barn and has never missed the board. (7) SNOWSTORM HANOVER has early speed and form; very playable.
Race 10
(10) BROADWAY DONNA couldn’t have been any more impressive at Lexington. If she brings anything close to that kind of effort, she can’t lose. (4) EMOTICON HANOVER ships down from Canada off a pair of wins but needs more raw speed to beat the top choice. (6) DOUBLE EXPOSURE hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. Deep down I still think she is capable. (8) FLOWERS N SONGS has proven she can play with this group when she brings her A game.
Race 11
(6) BAR HOPPING probably should have done better in Kentucky but I’ll give him a pass since he catches the weaker elimination tonight. (7) DANTE stretches out on the bigger track and is certainly eligible to improve. (5) WINTER HARBOR never got involved last time and now we get a driver change. Perhaps we’ll see different tactics now.
Race 12
(1) BETTING LINE wasn’t as impressive winning his last start. That said, he has proven so much better than the rest of this sophomore pacing crop that you really can’t pick against him. (5) WESTERN FAME has been racing well week after week and offers dangerous early speed. (4) STOLEN GLIMPSE was a highly regarded colt and he finally put it all together with a new lifetime mark at the Red Mile. Perhaps he is finally ready to bloom.
Race 13
(4) BLUE MOON STRIDE gets away from the best of this division and has no excuses. (5) ROCK ME BABY could be dangerous if following live cover behind a quick pace. (7) NEWBORN SASSY is very consistent and certainly looks like a player in here.
Race 14
(6) DOWNBYTHESEASIDE found another gear after setting brutal fractions last time. This guy has serious speed. (3) BOOGIE SHUFFLE has looked good of late but is still a step slower than the top choice. (2) BLOOD LINE can have a say in the outcome with his best effort. (5) WESTERN HILL looks to be as good as any except the top pick.
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: 0 - 0 / $0.00
BEST BETS: 0 - 0 / $0.00
Best Bet: WALNER (1st)
Spot Play: BILL’S MAN (9th)
Race 1
(5) WALNER has proven himself to be the best 2-year-old trotting colt in North America. It will take a mammoth effort from one of his foes or a poor race on his part to lose. (1) DEVIOUS MAN proved game at the Red Mile to continue his long losing streak. We’ll get to see how good he really is against this group. (7) NEW JERSEY VIKING has ability but needs to be a bit faster to win.
Race 2
(8) HUNTSVILLE couldn’t have been more impressive when winning in 1:49 in Kentucky two weeks ago. There is no doubt in my mind that he is the horse to beat for the Crown in this division. (2) OCEAN COLONY was scratched last time with a slight fever. The Jimmy Takter-trained colt has talent and can step up. (5) MCTHRILLER seems to be a step behind the top ones but has form on his side.
Race 3
(5) DARLINONTHEBEACH and (6) PURE COUNTRY are the clear leaders among 3-year-old pacing fillies. I’ll give a slight edge to the former because she has a post edge. (4) CALL ME QUEEN BE has dangerous early speed.
Race 4
(7) ROARING TO GO absolutely loved the big track in Lexington and now gets a chance to carry that success over to The Meadowlands. Art Major-sired filly is fast off the gate and should offer fair value. (8) IDYLLIC BEACH is widely considered to be the divisional leader and deserves plenty of respect. (2) AGENT Q seems to be one of those dangerous tricky horses which follow great and can take you down if you show signs of weakness. (1) BRAZUCA has won four straight and gets tested for class now.
Race 5
(2) ALL THE TIME makes her first start since colic surgery and certainly qualified back strongly. Unless she is odds-on, I’m on board with her on the win end. (5) CAPRICE HILL disappointed in Canada last time but did miss four weeks prior to that start. I’m willing to forgive that effort and assume she’ll be sharper tonight. (8) NON STICK is the New York champion. Let’s see how he does when stretching out on the bigger oval.
Race 6
(5) BOSTON RED ROCKS has recently built up his confidence while taking on weaker foes. Breeders Crown champion from 2015 looks like a fresh horse ready to take on some more weary warriors. I’ve always liked (1) RACING HILL, but you can’t be thrilled with his recent performances despite a win last time out. Perhaps he still has more in the tank but I need to see a big effort to back him at short odds. (8) LYONS SNYDER is capable of a big mile but hasn’t shown it often enough to trust him. (7) CHECK SIX has the ability to win races if none of these brings their best mile; very consistent.
Race 7
(8) SUTTON does his best work on the engine and was strangely raced from off the pace last time. I expect a major correction this week with serious speed from the start. (3) SOUTHWIND FRANK put in his best race in quite some time (with a flat tire) despite losing in the Kentucky Futurity. Perhaps the real Frank is finally back. (2) MARION MARAUDER is hard to fault as the sport’s newest Triple Crown winner; clear player.
Race 8
(7) SOMEOMENSOMEWHERE has picked up his game in a big way with Lasix added. This elimination came up soft and I see no reason why she can’t continue her recent success. (5) TORI HANOVER motored home last time versus softer competition. Perhaps this well-bred daughter of Trim Hanover is ready to show her best now. (4) ROCKETTE chased the top choice in her last start and could be doing so once again.
Race 9
(2) BILL’S MAN clearly got into the weaker division. John Butenschoen trainee is moving in the right direction now and only needs to behave to win. (5) JAKE comes into town for a decent trotting barn and has never missed the board. (7) SNOWSTORM HANOVER has early speed and form; very playable.
Race 10
(10) BROADWAY DONNA couldn’t have been any more impressive at Lexington. If she brings anything close to that kind of effort, she can’t lose. (4) EMOTICON HANOVER ships down from Canada off a pair of wins but needs more raw speed to beat the top choice. (6) DOUBLE EXPOSURE hasn’t quite lived up to expectations. Deep down I still think she is capable. (8) FLOWERS N SONGS has proven she can play with this group when she brings her A game.
Race 11
(6) BAR HOPPING probably should have done better in Kentucky but I’ll give him a pass since he catches the weaker elimination tonight. (7) DANTE stretches out on the bigger track and is certainly eligible to improve. (5) WINTER HARBOR never got involved last time and now we get a driver change. Perhaps we’ll see different tactics now.
Race 12
(1) BETTING LINE wasn’t as impressive winning his last start. That said, he has proven so much better than the rest of this sophomore pacing crop that you really can’t pick against him. (5) WESTERN FAME has been racing well week after week and offers dangerous early speed. (4) STOLEN GLIMPSE was a highly regarded colt and he finally put it all together with a new lifetime mark at the Red Mile. Perhaps he is finally ready to bloom.
Race 13
(4) BLUE MOON STRIDE gets away from the best of this division and has no excuses. (5) ROCK ME BABY could be dangerous if following live cover behind a quick pace. (7) NEWBORN SASSY is very consistent and certainly looks like a player in here.
Race 14
(6) DOWNBYTHESEASIDE found another gear after setting brutal fractions last time. This guy has serious speed. (3) BOOGIE SHUFFLE has looked good of late but is still a step slower than the top choice. (2) BLOOD LINE can have a say in the outcome with his best effort. (5) WESTERN HILL looks to be as good as any except the top pick.
