Race 1.     1-4-7

The entry of Blarney Stones and Game of Stones looks as good as anything in this race. I think the latter might be the better of the two, but in the event of a scratch, I’d be ok including whichever was left. In his last race Game of Stones broke last out of the gate and made steady progress while on the rail but could not outclose the top two. He was sent off as the favorite in that race and with a better trip today he has a good chance of topping the field.  Miroc looked good in straight maidens but apparently didn’t take to the inner at all. He’s got plenty of front running ability and is taking a pretty substantial drop from his 2015 races. Last year’s numbers dominate the field. Our Ben’s Brush showed speed in his debut and should improve with that start under his belt. El Genio established a clear lead last time and gave it up badly in the stretch – it’s a familiar pattern. However, he is 12 of 14 in the money and that can make him worth a look in the verticals.

Race 2.     8-9-2-6

Wild Bella is the morning line favorite on the strength of her close fourth in her NY debut. Wasn’t quite as fast as her CA races, but was still competitive. Should be the strongest of the late runners. The down side – she’s not cracked the winner’s circle in two years. If she goes off at the ML odds it doesn’t look like she would be value. Tepid choice for me. More Than Rainbows has primarily been a dirt runner, but her breeding is decent for the turf and she does have a win on the grass. Her last race gave her an eye-catching figure. At 20-1 she can be used in the verticals. Jenny’s Creek has the advantage of being a turf horse, but she is a little iffy in the top spot given 12 seconds and thirds against two wins in 28 starts. Wraith was claimed last out by Gary Contessa and the horse has run pretty consistent figures. Only has one non-descript turf race but the breeding suggests she should adapt to the surface.

Race 3.     1-4-3

Augie’s Coming should be the front runner and puts the blinkers on today. Fits the conditions and has competitive numbers. Danny Gargan has cracked the code this year – he’s got a 33% rate. Shadow Rider has been off seven months but prior to the layoff he won a race at the distance and was one out of two at Belmont. In his last race – his first with winners – he prompted the pace on the outside all the way and gradually faded in the stretch. In his defense, Send It In was a powerful winner and nobody was beating that horse today. Should have a good stalking position. Union River is 10 of 15 in the money but with only one win. Looks solid in the verticals, a little iffier in the win slot.

Race 4.     8-11-10

Same Kinda Crazy lost all chance at the break last out in the mud but in her maiden debut she showed decent speed. She actually made a really nice middle move around the turn while wide the entire time. She actually passed a number of horses going into the turn to the stretch – really a great angle. She hasn’t been on the turf, but  in these sprints turf breeding is less important. She’s 10-1 on the ML and has plenty of outs. Ragazza Di Papa showed two decent races on the turf last year and her numbers from last year should improve this time around. If she comes out running she’ll be tough to beat. Bea Bea has a good race on the BEL turf and Violette is good off the layoff.

Race 5.     1-3-8

Animal Appeal goes for Englehart who is 41% off the layoff. She wired a field at BEL last year in a good time. Nice workout pattern for the return. Looks the best of the horses with turf experience. Hillaryinthehouse is another coming off the layoff for a good layoff trainer. Always gives a good effort and has competitive figures. Hush Now has done more running on the dirt, but her three turf races have been consistently good. Should be prompting the pace. Bush layoff horses haven’t been great, but she did run decently in her 2015 debut off the layoff.

Race 6.     6-4-3

North Slope comes out of a restricted stakes back to the claiming ranks. His last race figure is easily the best and if he runs back to either of his last two he should grab the top spot. Inca Saint just missed at this distance last out and makes a slight step up for this start. Perhaps a little ambitious given his wins have been for $25K or less, but looks to be in his best condition. Winter Games has been claimed for this price last two times out and almost comes into the is one with two wins in a row. No reason to expect less than a top effort here.

Race 7.     2-7-6-3

Neck of the Moon has two seconds in three tries at the distance, and has shown an affinity for the BEL turf.  Has run well off the layoff previously and has Chad Brown doing the training. Always hard to ignore a turf mare trained by Brown. Rumble Doll is 3 of 3 in the money at the distance and 5 of 5 in the money over the BEL turf. Her figures should keep that in the money record intact. The Clement runners Rose Et Or and Stormy Victoria both had success in Europe and Clement is a solid 19% with first time runners in the states. Stormy Victoria looks like the better of the two for me.

Race 8.     3-1-2-8

This is a really tough race so I’m looking for a horse at the right price and that is Ostralenka. He’s 4 of 5 at BEL; in fact that’s the only track he’s won over. That’s a good angle in itself, but he’s also at his best running with NY breds. BEL figures punctuate the pick. Drama King was riding a three race win streak, including a state bred stakes, before flopping in a non conditioned allowance. I think he gets back on track today. I’m giving an in the money spot to Weekend Hideaway. He’s not a need to lead sort, but should be in a good striking position. Has a couple of wins at Belmont and the distance. Eye Luv Lulu easily won the non conditioned allowance race three weeks ago and he looks to be in good form. Can’t discount.

Race 9.     4-12-11-9

The closer goes to Wake Up Smiling. His 2015 figures top this field and she should improve from last year. Both races were at this distance and at BEL. Switched to the Linda Rice barn and she is 33% with her new charges. Somerset Sandy also has two good races and gets first Lasix. Another that should improve over last year’s numbers and that gives her a good chance to get the win. Lady’s First has a competitive turf race last year and the workouts suggest she’ll be ready. Pira had a troubled start in her maiden voyage, but still managed to show interest, passing 8 horses. Could be any kind and worth a long look today.

Race 1.     6-5-3

Make Your Point just won at the NW3 level and the slight price drop should leave him at an equivalent class.  Figures put her on top. Mastic goes first of the claim for Michelle Nevin and she is a solid 22%. Should improve with the cutback in distance. Ferzetti has been knocking at this level a while. She seems to like the AQU main and her last race number puts her in the mix.

Race 2.     2-8-9

Indygo Tigress should be the front runner here. She is bred average for the turf, so we’ll see if she takes to it. Johnny V gets aboard and that is a positive. Antebellum drops out of MSW and is one of the few in here with a  solid turf race. Eqho is well bred for the turf and goes first time for Robert Ribaudo. I like that Jose Ortiz takes the mount.

Race 3.     2-6-1

Bust Another comes out of OC$80K races. He’s been much improved since Michael Pino took over training duties. I think he moves up successfully today. Dr. Shane has been competitive with statebred stakes horses for a while and has the numbers to be a major factor here. Sudden Surprise flopped in his effort with open stakes company, but he’s back with statebreds today. His record there is outstanding.

Race 4.     2-6-4

Break Away has had trouble finding the winner’s circle but Contessa is dropping the horse to its lowest level. Last race was a decent run and she has competitive turf numbers. Gimme Jimmy is another that  has trouble crossing the wire first, but she is competitive, rarely finishing too far behind. On a field where there are a lot of weak NW2 horses, she may finally break through. Elementsofharmony should be the speed of the field and has three turf figures that would easily win the race.  The odds don’t look like value, but she can’t be ignored.

Race 5.     8-2-3-9

Spring On Curlin had a troubled start but ran evenly throughout. He was bet last time and with a better start could be way better than his 10-1 ML odds. Onlytheshadowknows has shown good speed in his two starts and takes the blinkers off today. Competitive numbers. Travis County adds Lasix and McLaughlin is 24% with second time starters. Gorgeous Charli had a troubled start last out, rushed up with the leaders and faded. A clean start may mean a better trip.

Race 6.     2-3-4

Cliffs of Dover has a number of figures that would win in this field. Deserved favorite. Brimstone has only been on the turf once but he earned a good figure and lately has run some good races. Could be good value by post time. Coco is Loco won his turf debut, flopped on the inner, but is back on the grass today. Winning jockey Irad is back on board.

Race 7.     6-7-8

This race is super competitive, and you could make a case for almost any horse. Draxhall Woods comes out of the Peeping Tom where he race a close third. Won at this level two back and seems to enjoy winning. Hector’s Pride looks like the speed of the speed and is dropping out of the Kelly Kip. Seems to be in top shape. Monty Haul was claimed by David Cannizzo last out by had recently beaten $40K. Competitive off his best race.

Race 8.     5-4-6

Time and Motion is the clear fastest in the field. Just won her maiden in her 2016 debut but ran commendably in the BC Juvenile Fillies Turf. Ready to break through. Enjoy Yourself comes out of the Florida Oaks and has competitive numbers. Great value if she goes off near her 8-1 ML. Pricedtoperfection just beat a Grade 3 field and has the always dangerous Chad Brown in her corner. Certainly would be no surprise.

Race 9.     13-7-8

Very difficult race, mostly because no horse stands out. Bustin Aces has the best speed and her figures are competive. Show Giant has been running decently as this level, but will need to improve to get to the wire first. Better than her 12-1 odds. Double Mane is another that has been close in her races with no luck getting to the wire first. Still, in this field, it may be her day.

Race 1.     6-5-4

First race is a statebred maiden claimer and the choices are limited. In Condition looks like he has by far the best speed and his 2YO figure is almost as good as others 3YO figures. Like the angle. Excluded ran pretty well in his 2016 debut and with any improvement is a prime contender. Fleeting Gold has been working on breaking his maiden this year and may pick up some pieces.

Race 2.     2-5-1

Longfor the City had trouble at the start in his last race so throw that one out. Ru Rod moved him up after claiming him for $25K and drops him to his lowest level today. Should be winging on the front and may be hard to catch. Pass the Dice is the other Ru Rod entrant and he comes off a narrow win at this level. On his best day he’s right in the mix. Luckbox Sam jumps up to $20K. He’s been in good shape but faces a stern test today.

Race 3.     4-10-2-12

This is a competitive affair, and like most of the early turf races there are a number of horses with no turf form. I’ll go with Moegan Avenue who has three nice races in a row and has a good mix of speed and stay. He’s been dropping in price looking for the win and may be in the right spot today. Datamining drops from MSW to this claiming spot. I like horses coming off the FG turf. You can toss his last race, and his turf figures are right there. Liam’s Prince is making his 10th start looking for a win. Has the talent, but needs to show he has the heart. Im a Prankster has shown speed in his races, and may be able to hold it off the price drop.

Race 4.     7-6-3

In Spite of Mama tries NW1X for the first time. She blew away a statebred field of optional claimers on the inner and went in a state-bred stakes where she showed well to the stretch. May be the value in the race. Literata just won a non-conditioned state-bred allowance and rarely throws in a bad race. Flick of an Eye has the best last race figure but has been trying to crack the winner’s circle at this level for a while.

Race 5.     12-2-7-11

Startup Nation was running mainly in graded races the last two years and has the dominant turf figures. I’d be a lot more concerned if Chad Brown wasn’t the trainer. If he’s in condition he looks like the best horse. Glowing Ember has been running well at this level, although he does seem to be a little fainthearted when the running really starts. Still, he’s got speed and he is 12-1 on the ML. Mark My Style finished second at this level last out and has competitive numbers. Front finished just behind Mark My Style two back and could turn the tables today.

Race 6.     9-4-1

This is a pretty bad field, but somebody still has to win. Ideal Quality was claimed at this price, jumped up to $25K, and is back at this level today. If he runs to his best figure, he’s as good as any in here. Touchdown looks like the speed and puts the blinkers on today. Last race is a toss, but the one before was good enough to win this one. Andrew’s Got Zip has had trouble finding the winner’s circle but has figures that could put him in the verticals.

Race 7.     2-6-7

Highland Sky is the interesting horse here. He made a big close in the BC Juvenile Turf. He came back in a restricted stakes to finish second and seems primed for a good effort today. Highly Prized is better than his 12-1 odds. He broke his maiden at first asking when shipped to the states, and has run two decent races since. His figures suggest he’s not that far out of it. Unbridled Daddy easily won his 2016 debut and ran well in a Grade 2 at the Spa. He looks primed to run well today.

Race 8.     8-3-2

Behrnik’s Bank destroyed two fields at Penn National and nearly won a version of the NYS Stallion Series in December. Workout pattern is ordinary, but she did win he debut by open lengths. Frosty Margarita was the one who beat the top choice last year.  She’s never finished worse than second in her life and you bet against her at your own peril. Libreta has some decent races and may make the vertical.

Race 9.     8-4-10

The closer is a total mess of a race. Baldonnel gets the nod for a couple of reasons. He’s been gelded since his last and I like his late October Belmont race. He’s making a big drop from his last two races at AQU and moves to the Contessa barn for this start. At the odds may be value. Momma’s Mark hasn’t won since the middle of last year, but does have some recent turf form. Prospects here. Geo Niko broke his maiden two back and should be in a good striking position turning for home. His win gave him a good figure and if he duplicates it he’s a contender.

Race 1.     6-1-3-4

Sunny Puzzle was claimed by Englehart for $25K, jumped up to a couple of $50K races, then dropped way back to $14K in his last. He looked heartless in the stretch, but in the last race he won he nearly wired a field. He drops back in distance today, and that is in his favor. Like his chances at the odds. Global Positioning should be winging from the one post. Jacobson drops the horse in half after a decent showing with $35K horses, but this is a typical move for him. Jackson P just missed at this level last out and it looks like one of the potential front runners. Sherifco won last out with slightly higher and should get first run at the leaders.

Race 2.     5-1-2

American Creed is 14 of 18 in the money at this distance. He’s had pretty consistent figures and often when DJ drops them he is serious about looking for the win. Attractive Ride was claimed last out by good percentage claiming trainer Michael Pino. This 10 year old makes his 92nd start today and is winning at over a 25% clip. As long as he keeps running you have to keep using him. Tairneach comes of a long layoff for Danny Gargan, who is an excellent 27% with long layoff horses. He’s shown he can run well fresh and makes a substantial drop today. May go favorite and has every right to win, but the odds don’t look that appealing.

Race 3.     7-5-4

Chairman Now has the best last race figure and is riding a two race win streak. Sticking with today’s old guy theme, he’s another one of those horses that always seems to give an honest effort. Now We Are Free is an off the pace horse that has a tendency to be around at the end of races. Likes the AQU dirt and has done well at the distance. Coming off a good run and looks very useful here. Heady Creek is coming off a win at $14K but given it was conditioned he’s not really making a drop. Still, he should be competitive here.

Race 4.     4-3-5-6

Dia de Encanta has been off since last July. In his one dirt race she ran well and comes back today at a lower price. Her dirt race had a figure as good as anything in here, and she may wind up being some value. Addibel Lightning is dropping out of MSW and only making her third start. Danny Gargan takes over training duties and he is 27% first time with a horse. She should compete with this group. Bustin Aces should be most of the speed early and if she is not challenged she could be dangerous. Trapper Jane takes the blinkers off and drops down from $40K. That makes her worth considering.

Race 5.     5-6-4-9

All Over Me has been competitive in his last eight races. I’m not sure why Maker feels a need to bring him back off a win only six days ago, but if he goes he has to be respected. Goodtolook was taken last out by David Cannizzo. His turf races have been very good and if he runs back to them he should be very competitive. Elroi seems more interested in finishing in the money, but the figures suggest he’s got outs today. Comes from far out of it but there should be enough speed to potentially give him a setup. East Bay Lodge is another off the pace horse with consistent numbers.

Race 6.     2-7-3

Wolf Letter has one race where she won powerfully wire to wire. Should be at the right level today for her first with winners and any improvement makes her even stronger. Army Brat just broke her maiden and was claimed by Michelle Nevin. She had been with better in her first two and if she is topping her form cycle, she could give the top choice all she can handle. Our Whim plunges in price today. She certainly has races that would put her right with the top two. Worth considering.

Race 7.     5-1-6

Cracking Good Pins comes off a win at GP and tries the AQU turf for the first time. Figures look good, but there are a number in here without current turf form who could surprise. Still, best to go with the horses that have current form. Chow Fun had some good turf runs before trying the inner dirt. Has two wins in six tries at AQU. Wild Bella ships over from the west coast for DJ. Irad signs on for the ride and he should have her setting the pace. Hasn’t won in a while and maybe the change of venue will do the trick.

Race 8.     3-6-7

Yakov looks like the best early speed and seems best suited for the mile distance. Has two seconds in three tries at AQU. Edge Ridge actually takes a drop moving into the state-bred ranks. He looks like he is on the improve and the field is weak enough that he has a real chance. Clifton Pleasure will be coming in the stretch. He has been running well for a while and his last was better than looked.

Race 9.     4-3-7

Adirondack Luck drops out of a MSW for this $40K affair. Really the only one with any real turf form, but not so solid you can take 9/5. Saratoga by Design should be the one setting the pace and if she can recapture her form from last you she’s a contender. Justenufflaughter has been knocking around at the maiden level for a while. But in her six maiden races she has been second in half of them. In a weak field she’s got a chance.

Race 1.     4-5-3

It’s another two year old race and this time Silver Mission is the Pletcher/Velasquez entry.  Enough said. Lethal Shot goes for low profile connections but gets Jose Ortiz. 24% trainer Phil Schoenthal sends Fuhrlong off a good workout pattern in Maryland.

Race 2.     6-7-1

Congrats Kid is not the sort I normally gravitate toward, but given he was claimed by Asmussen two back he gets a chance to improve enough to hit the wire first. Best figure of all the horses that have started. Whereas Willy drops in price quite a bit for this start and turns back to a slightly shorter race. His numbers aren’t that far off the top choice. The Rudy Rodriguez entry are both first timers, but I like the prep he’s done. He’s one of the better trainers with first timers at AQU.

Race 3.     3-2-6

Valkimqua drops back to the right price after trying a little tougher. Blinkers go on today and Englehart has had some small success with that move. Off her best she looks like the winner. Sweet Peaches just won on the AQU main and Gargan brings her back at the right price. She’s been with better in the past and may be on the upswing. Lucky Boots tries this level for the second time. May be a little underlayed at 5/2 but can’t be discounted.

Race 4.    4-6-5

Ginned Up is one of only a couple with turf experience. She’s got by far the top figure and has to get the nod in the absence of any other with current form. Votre Coeur goes first time on the turf for Chad Brown. Brown is dynamite with turf fillies and no doubt he’ll have her ready to run. Feeling Bossy comes off a decent effort last out at GP and adds blinkers today. Johnny V gets aboard and that can’t hurt.

Race 5.     2-5-4

Natalie Victoria is hard to pick against here, She has a series of figures that would easily win this race, and she has enough speed to to be a factor on the pace. She’s dropping down the price ladder substantially from her last two, but considering RuRod claimed her for $20K and got a win out of her, maybe it’s not so negative. Still, she’s 0 for 9 at AQU and that is at least a small concern, Littlemissperfect closed in her last to win comfortably, That represents Andrew Lakeman’s only win in 2015 so far. Jose Ortiz returns for the ride and that is a positive. Just Got Out failed in the mud last out but she was over her head. Back at the right price today.

Race 6.     5-1-6

Is She Hot has the best speed by far and if she gets off to a leisurely pace she may be hard to catch. Lotsa Noodles exits the same race as a few of these. She’s been claimed a few times in the last five months, and she has a number of back figures that would dominate this field. After Barrera took her he took the blinkers off but puts them back on today. That may just focus the horse more. Just Catty ran evenly last out and won last time she was at this level. Serious contender.

Race 7.     2-3-8

Jademarie’s one victory came on the turf and her last race is much better than looked. Her current form is ambiguous – she’s been racing with tougher although not really showing her best. I like the chances but at 2-1 I’m not seeing value. Weekend Score was a flop on the inner, but has a number of nice turf efforts in her past. Looks like she’ll need to clear early to have a real shot here. Light Years Away may be the best of the early speed, and from the outside post will have to move early to get position. Maybe a little ambitiously placed but she could make one of the verticals if she comes in.

Race 8.     1-7-9

Super Sharp ships to AQU from LRL. I like a couple of things about the horse. First she’s been running mostly in open company and drops into a state-bred NW1X today. She is likely the best speed in this race, and her latest figures are very competitive. Finally, Jose Ortiz takes the mount. Taken by Surprise goes for Pletcher and she has a win over the AQU main. First time she’s gone with older horses, so she’ll have to be on top of her game to succeed today. Quibbler is taking a pretty good jump up today but does own the best last race figure. Worth considering in the verticals.

Race 9.     5-4-1-9

In the Beat was claimed last out by Gary Gullo and he is 26% first off the claim.  The horse comes back at the same level as his last winning effort. Will need to get into a good striking position early. Ground Control gets Irad back for this trip. Wasn’t disgraced on the inner track routes, but will likely be better at this distance. The Jacobson entry of Castaway and Syndicated both look competitive in here. March Too has the fastest last race figure and can’t be discounted.

Race 1.     4-5-1

Early season two year old race, We’re looking for a horse that looks like the clear front  runner. So Fancy looks bred for the sprint and Ru Rod is one of the two trainers who have had success with first timers. Lady Stardust is the ML favorite and has some impressive drills. Big Hay Alice has two quick works in a row. Contessa has not been impressive with first timers, but in a five horse field…

Race 2.     6-8-2

John Eddie looks like the best speed in the race and is making a slight drop off the claim by Contessa. Takes the blinkers off today. Caelifera ran a decent race when moved from the inner to the main. Blinkers go on today. Shipsandgoods showed very little in his first two starts but is dropping from MSW. A couple of good works and maybe he’s ready to turn it around.

Race 3.     5-1-3

Another short field. Trophee is coming off three graded starts in a row and close to four months rest. Two seconds in two starts on the AQU turf. Off her best she’s the fastest. Carnevale came off a 10 month layoff to run well at this level at GP. Figures in the U.S. are improved over Europe, and perhaps that was the Lasix, but she looks plenty fast enough to be a factor. Queen’s Parade has been in the money in all but one of her last eight. Competes well at the level.

Race 4.     5-3-2

Liberty Fuze was outclassed in the Videogenic, but is at the right level today. Has speed and has an impressive win percentage. Aix En Provence just won for slightly higher on the inner and is competitive with these when in shape. Time for Angie was riding a five race winning streak before finishing second last out. Her best wins this race. 1 for 1 on the AQU main.

Race 5.     4-2-1

Truth ran a bang-up race first time out and looks to be the best sped here. Last race figure dominates. Lead Along has had a couple of troubled trips but has shown stout closing ability. Well bred for the turf and the distance. Conquest Lucknlove is the Chad Brown entrant, She’s another with speed and ran well in her first race this year. No surprise if she wins this one.

Race 6.     8-1-6

Blarney Stones should be the leader early and took well to the AQU main. Figure is competitive as well. Our Viking has been improving with each start and at 15-1 deserves a serious look. Here Comes R J ran pretty well in his last and is another one seeming to be improving.

Race 7.     2-1-8

Quaralia only has two starts but looks well suited to the turf and the distance. She’s one of the few with turf experience. No lock, but hard to figure which other horse might take to the turf as well. Dreams to Reality has the best figures on the dirt and is coming out of the grade 2 Gaselle where she ran an evenly fourth. Breeding not outstanding for the turf but has a turfer’s closing kick. Little Bear Cat looks like the speed of the race but takes a jump up. Speed is always dangerous though and at 15-1 she might be worth a look.

Race 8.     3-1-2

Fair Point has only been out of the money once lifetime. Her lifetime top competes in this group. Last time she came off the layoff she was a winner. Sweetrayofsunshine has three wins and two seconds in her last five. Her lifetime top overwhelms this field. Should be in a good tracking position. Picture Day was claimed last out by Michael Pino who is 24% first off the claim. Won her last out in a good time and should be contending at the end.

Race 9.     2-5-10

Tough closing event. Smokey Brown has been on a roll lately with two wins and a place in his last three. Moves up in price, but figures are competitive. Mambo At the Gym has a second on the AQU turf and was close at this level last out. Doesn’t have a great turf record, but did seem to take to AQU. Mr. Canada has some decent efforts on the turf and could be the surprise in this field.

Great card yesterday at AQU. Today, not as much. Given the moisture yesterday, I’m not holding out great hope for races staying on the turf.

Race 1      5-1-2

Legend of Lorelei finally broke her maiden in her 9th try. She looks like the most likely front runner and that maiden race gave her a nice figure. Looks to be in top shape. Majesticconfection broke her maiden for $30K and jumped up a little in her next two and really ran respectably. Figures suggest as long as she can get good early position she is a major contender. Love You Babe broke her maiden at this price, went over her head for the next three, and drops way back today. That should be in her favor.

Race 2      2-4-1

She’s All Even will likely go favorite off the strength of her speed and current condition. Looks like lone front here. Ferzetti was claimed two back by Patrick Reynolds and finished a good second toHarlan Belle who won her next out. She’ll need her best to run by the top choice. Reign won her second at this price, jumped up in price and flopped after have a little bit of gate trouble. Back at the right price today.

Race 3      3-5-4

Mei Ling easily wired a field last out in a good time. Should be the front speed, but may get pushed by Noble Beauty. Wet track record suggests an advantage if the moisture stays. Carrumba just missed in the Comely after bobbling at the start. She’ll be the favorite and deservedly so. No surprise if she wins. Saythreehailmary’s has been competitive for a while with state-bred stakes runners and won a restricted stakes in the slop in January. Could surprise at a price.

Race 4      3-1-8-2

Lead Along came from off the pace in her two GP starts and looks to be eligible for improvement today. I like the figures and Mott horses often take a race or two to hit their best stride. Conquest Lucknlove goes second time at a turf route for Chad Brown. Nearly wired a field last time, but if the race stays on the turf, she may not have as easy a time on the front end. Gioia Stella has two strong seconds in her first two starts and has the figures to match the top two. Can’t discount. Lemondrop Lollipop has one good turf start and it was on the AQU turf. Condition off the races on the inner should be good. Has some outs.

Race 5      2-6-5

Mahabodhi Tree has a tough name to pronounce but should be primed  off his inner dirt starts. Should be the one to catch. Going for Broke is a first timer for Chad Brown and he is still an impressive 20% with debut runners. Workouts look typical for Brown and the horse should come out running. Liana Star has been searching for a maiden win for five tries, but just can’t seem to hold together in the stretch. This race may be his best shot to turn things around.

Race 6      Turf: 4-11-2-3      Dirt: 14-7-13

Race 7      4-1-5

Toledo Eddie has four wire jobs in a row. He’s the best speed in here, enjoys a track with moisture, and has improved by leaps since moving to the Jacobson barn. The one to catch. Unbridled Juan has nothing but in the money finishes in his career. Hard trying horse should be the main competition. Farhaan jumps up a little in price, but has been running well lately. McLaughlin seems to have him headed in a good direction.

Race 8      8-5-4-3

Takeover Target has run six graded stakes in a row, winning two and being close in the others. 1 for 1 at the distance, has the right style, and figures are competitive. Macagone is well meant at the mile and has the best last race figure. Big shot here if he can control the pace. Lubash is a steady runner and has run well off the layoff previously. Turned 9 this year, so we’ll see if father time is catching up with him. Fredericksburg seems to have trouble cracking the winner’s circle but he fits with this group. Maybe in the verticals.

Race 9      1-6-7

Bonita Luna ran well from the rail in last week’s one turn mile. Should have things her own way up front today. Could be a nice price at post time. Guyana has been with better lately. Was great last year, starting a little slower this year. Levine usually improves second off a layoff. Familyofroses seems to be another with some hesitancy to pass horses in the lane. Still, she’s better than 50% in the money and is making a steep drop today. That may be enough to put her close at the wire.

Race 1.     1-7-5

The first race represents the first of a lot of tough races to handicap. Spooked Out is one of the horses with a tendency to stay close to the pace. He gets the Pletcher/Velasquez combo and one thing I really liked – he broke his maiden by almost 10 lengths on this track. If he holds up in the front he’s the one to beat. Celtic Chaos is coming off a win and did beat the top choice in that race. He’ll be coming off the pace and there may be just enough speed to set the race up for him. Scorecard Harry took a while to break his maiden but ran a good one when he finally did. He’s got a little bit of natural speed and seems strong in the stretch. His figure is a little lighter than a couple of these, but he’s not without a chance.

Race 2.     4-3-7

American Creed has been popular at the claim box and in his first race for DJ just missed winning at the same level as today. Off his best he’s competitive and may go off at a decent price. Bass River Road has been hanging around mainly with state-bred optional claimers and his last two races have been good from a figure standpoint. The drop down to $25K should only be in his favor. Jeter does well on the AQU main and seems to be nearing the top of his form cycle.

Race 3.     4-1-2

Madefromlucky flopped in the Donn and in his last on the AQU slop, but he’s had some good distance races and he may turn out to be able to set his own pace. Certainly capable of a Grade 3 win. Turco Bravo is 6 of 7 first or second at this distance and won the Stymie with a nice stretch move. A little bothersome that winning rider Manny Franco goes elsewhere, but given his current condition he has to be considered Kid Cruz has a win and a second in two races on the AQU main. Has a 33% win percentage, but lately he seems more inclined to finish second. Worth a look but probably not value at the ML.

Race 4.     4-1-5-11

Happyness ships over from Europe and Chad Brown is very good with Euro shippers. Looks like one that will be coming strong lately. Chrysolite has consistent turf figures – one of the few in this race to have clear turf form. She’s done well off the layoff previously and David Donk does well off the layoff. Theresas Canyrose has tried to break through at the NW1X, but what I like is that her turf races have provided her best figures. Morethanawarning race decently at GP and hasn’t done badly on the AQU turf. One of the group in here with prospects.

Race 5.     5-3-2-7

Still Krz has been running well since coming off of the WO synthetic, has some ability to push the pace and has a win in two tries at the distance. Little Popsie is on a three race win streak and his figures have stayed consistent. Should be the one to catch. Rectify is 2 for 2 on the AQU main and 2 of 4 at the distance. The switch back to the main should be a plus. Hey Bro seems to be always in the mix at the end and could be part of the vertical here.

Race 6.     7-2-6-10

Iromea was flying late in the Tropical Park Oaks and picked up a good number. She’s done well since coming to the U.S. (and still isn’t using Lasix). We have no idea how the turf will be playing, but if closer’s are doing well she’s the best of that bunch. Tapitry comes off a layoff but has done well off the layoff previously. McGaughey does well off the long layoff and that last work is eye-catching. Off Limits ran well in her last after hesitating at the start and steadying. Another Euro shipper for Chad Brown and if she runs a clean race she’s a big factor. Gap Year has been in an out, but off her best race she wouldn’t be a total surprise.

Race 7.     8-11-3-1

Sharpie’s Dream is 20-1 on the ML. Perhaps that is because Ferraro is not having a great year and Camacho hasn’t had a win this year, but the horse great front speed and finished with a good figure last out. At any sort of odds you have to give him a look. Mind Your Biscuits has been off since last year and switched trainers. He ran well first time out, has solid numbers and gets Irad to take the ride. Benevolence gets Lasix off a decent third despite going wide on the far turn. Is one of a few who have a competitive figure. Brooklyn Major is making his fifth start, has shown some ability to finish close, and at the odds may make a nice vertical.

Race 8.     1-6-2

Clair de Lune has two powerful wins in a row and has a dominant last race figure. Behrnik’s Bank blew away two fields in PA and ran a good race in a state-bred stakes. Plenty of speed and is better than the 15-1 ML suggests. Lewis Bay has already won a grade 2 race and ran respectably in the Davona Dale. Very legitimate win prospects.

Race 9.     8-5-6

This is a very competitive version of Bay Shore, and there are a half dozen horses for which you can make a case. I see very little separation between the top contenders.Richie the Bull ran very well in the Swale. His last work was swift and his figures say he’s competitive with any horse in here. At 8-1 he’s on the consideration list. Unified just broke his maiden a few ticks off the track record and will likely go favorite. The works after that race have been very good and a great case can be made for him as the winner. Cocked and Loaded is a legitimate Grade 3 runner and looked good against KY Derby early favorite Nyquist in the BC Juvenile. His 2YO numbers alone make him competitive and if he has grown and is ready to run he’s primed for an upset.

Race 10.  1-6-8-2

This year’s version of the Wood comes up with a so-so field. Shagaf looks like the stickout off his win in the Gotham. If he takes to the main, he looks like the main contender. Matt King Coal has a lot of front running calls in his four starts. Speed is always dangerous and we’ll see if he passes this big test today. Outwork comes off a second in the Tampa Bay Derby and may give King Coal a run up front. Improving horse for Pletcher. Adventist finished third in the Gotham and should be one of the horses looking to pick up the pieces if the leaders falter.

Race 11.  5-3-2

The Carter is another competitive race. While Salutos Amigos hasn’t been dominant, he’s still a graded stakes runner and looks like he appreciated being back  in NY. Should have no trouble with the 7F distance. Dads Caps takes the blinkers off for RuRod and is the defending champ in this race. Likes this distance and likes the AQU main. Majestic Affair just missed in the General George at Laurel at this distance. That race earned a top figure and he should be a major contender.

Race 12.  6-7-11 

Caldera ships back from SA for DJ.  He’s shown some talent on the turf and if the SA figures transfer he’s a primary contender. Big Gilette has shown good speed in his races on the dirt, and in his one turf race on this course he only finished two lengths away from the winner. Worth a look at the odds. Vulcan’s Page has to overcome the outside post, but should be one of the ones coming at the end.

Yesterday went to a lot of front runners, so I’ve made sure to include them today. We’ll see if the track changes up today.

Race 1.     8-4-6

Good Laugh had three good races on the inner, has plenty of speed and the best figure. Flower Kisser showed good speed on the turf at Belmont last fall and had absolutely no chance last race when she face planted at the start. She’s making another drop and with RuRod training she can’t be discounted. Wire Dancer has a second and five thirds in eight starts. Heading to bridesmaid status.

Race 2.     2-1-7-4

Monty Haul just won for $40K and drops down today. I can’t say I like the move, but perhaps Klesaris has decided time to move the horse.  Should be the one to catch. Bellarmine has a useful pressing style and consistent figures lately. Is another moving down the ladder. Pass the Dice drops in search of a win. He’s been consistent in 2016 and a big one would be no surprise. Son of a General seems to run one, take one off and today would be the run day. He won for $32K in December and missed a nose at $25K in February. TA duplicate of that race would put him right there.

Race 3.     2-1-3-4

Stormin Monarcho has two huge figures in his last two and appears to be the purest speed. Matternhorn is slightly hidden here. He’s graded stakes placed and likes the AQU main. Off his best from last year he’s right in the mix. Samraat has been off a while, but Violette is good off the layoff.  He was well-thought of in 2014 and made a decent return in 2015. Some question marks, but if he is right he can be part of the picture. Transparent is another off a long layoff and is another with back figures that put him right there.

Race 4.     7-9-3-6

Show Giant looks like far and away the best speed. Not sure who challenges him early, so he could have things his own way wire to wire. Baronet was just taken by Sciacca who is 29% first off the claim. Should be in the chasing pack. Sweet Peaches came off the layoff to run a pretty good race. Improved over last year and with another step up she can take the top slot. Silly Face was taken last time by the good claiming trainer Michael Pino. Puts the blinkers on today. Should be part of the pressing group.

Race 5.     1-4-2-3  

Zen Papa has show good speed in all his races and looks to be the best front runner here. Last race figure off the short layoff cements the pick. Bust Another has the top last race figure and if the top pick falters he should be there to pick up the pieces. Ready Dancer finally showed a little after getting stomped when over his head in the grade 2 Swale. Could be good if he can establish a striking position early. Name Changer was impressive first out. He was off slow, bumped, but still won going away. Can’t discount his chances.

Race 6.     8-1-5

Porch Pounder finished second well behind Amoral, but has the best early foot and the best last race figures.  The one to beat. Desperado is a good angle play. He showed speed last year in a turf sprint from an outside post. He looks much better bred for the dirt. He’s better than the 30-1 ML, although unknown trainer Joan Milne has to give room to pause. Still, I like the angle. Justalittlebitmore took the worst of it at the start but still made an early run. A clean break should let him show what he’s got.

Race 7.     10-3-1-7

I had to go with longshot Saint Joseph who certainly looks like he should be winging out on the lead early. He has a win at 7F and a win over the AQU dirt. Surfspun has been has a lot of seconds and thirds, so he’s worth using in the exotics. Consistent figures as well. PArk Ranger just broke his maiden by 6 for DJ and has a series of good maintenance works for his first with winners. Sourcesandmethods may not be a solid choice for the win, but he’s shown a lot of willingness to finish in the money. Use in the verticals.

Race 8.     4-2-5

Bellamy Way smashed a filed last out and steps up a few rungs today. Has been in the money in all but one of his last 10 and while I don’t like the value proposition, he has to be respected for his consistency. Sioux  has plenty of speed and fits in this group. Has been with better and seems to like winning. Sea Raven is 10-1 ML. He is a closer and may be up against it today, but if the speed comes back he can make a strong bid for the win.

Race 9.     3-7-2- 5

On to Trenton just missed last time after a slightly troubled break. Last race figure tops the field. No Tanx Blue Chip beat For a Good Reason last out and finished a length away from the win after having to go wide around the turn.  No better than this level, but a repeat makes him a contender.  For a Good Reason showed improving speed last out. If he stays anywhere near his ML odds, he’ll be my win bet. Shootout has run two good ones in a row and has every right to keep improving.

Race 1.     5-7-2

Adrestia should go off the big favorite off two MSW races where she showed good speed. Blinkers go on today. Have to respect her off the drop, but not likely to be value. Jennifer’s Legacy goes first time for James Ryerson who is 23% with limited starters. Breeding and workout pattern both positive. Cats Halo showed nothing first out on the turf but drops to a MCL. Should do better on the dirt and may surprise.

Race 2.     5-1-7

Petrocelli has been popular at the claim box lately. Should be the clear front speed and should have no problem back at the sprint distance. Fire Alarm just won at this level at Parx and has been running consistently. Should be a factor today. Wizardly drops in price off a win in a $25K NW3L. Last race figure says he is competitive here.

Race 3.     6-1-4

I thought this was a very competitive race. Beautyinthepulpit has gone off as the favorite in four of her last five. There’s a lot of speed in the race and she’s the one that figures to benefit if the race breaks down. She’s at the right level and has the figures to top the field. Igotthediscoinme drops back slightly to the mile distance. Juan Ortiz is a very low profile trainer, but the horse has won at this level and has a win and 5 seconds in six starts at the distance. At 15-1 ML he’s worth a look. Pretension  benefited by the scratch of Longfor the City and should be in the front scrum. Wired a field last out and could make it two in a row.

Race 4.     3-7-4

Indygo Tigress had a rough trip first time out but still beat half the field. Switch to Javier may be helpful. Egyptian Rose has been knocking around at this level for a while. Has shown speed and may hold it longer against this field. Kitai is making her 12th start. May have in the money prospects, but has had too many chances to win.

Race 5.     3-1-4

Ostrolenka has the best last race figure and should enjoy the drop back to 7F. Can run to the front and sustain and considering he’s been competitive with state bred stakes horses this drop should be nothing bu helpful. Drama King seems to be at the top of his game and can run the sprint or route. Between the Lines may be a half step below some of these, but he’s in shape, likes the AQU main and should do well at the distance.

Race 6.     5-2-8

Rapid Rouge was claimed last out by Gary Gullo who is 27% first off the claim. He seems to have found his level at this low claiming price. He just won for $16 and if he runs back to that race he’ll be a solid bet. March Too has been competitive at the low claiming level and seems to be on the upswing in his form cycle. Worth a look at the price. Saint Finian cuts back to a one turn sprint and while he may look a step below, he has some back class and looks to be competitive in this spot. May make the verticals at the odds.

Race 7.     4-1-6

Integrity has shown well on the AQU main. He has plenty of early foot and has the top figure in the field. Narvaez just wired a slightly easier field and hasn’t been out of the money in his last eight races. Always gives a good effort and should be good at the distance.  Manhattan Mischief is one for one over the AQU main and may be the surprise horse here. Last race figure at Parx tops the field.

Race 8.     2-1-3

Eloquent Tribute just beat an ALW NW1X. In her last 10 she’s been worse than 4th only once. Figures well at the sprint distance.  Myfourchix has a win and a second in two starts on the main and has run consistent figures. Blithely is another that never seems to run a bad race, likes the AQU main, and is 5 of 10 at the distance. Would be no surprise in the winners circle.

Race 9.     1-4-5-6

Of the horses that have started, Urbanity sticks out. Her figure sticks out given it was her first start. Dream On has been off a year and a half, but the works have been really solid and at 10-1 in this race she’s worth checking out. Riot Worthy has 9 starts and 5 seconds. Looks more solid for the verticals than the win slot. Hot Cajun Sauce had a poor break first time out but managed to run creditably. Worth considering.