Service Plays Saturday 5/23/20

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:00 AM

Al Cimaglia: May 23-Scioto Downs Pick 5 Analysis

May 23, 2020 | By Al Cimaglia
The 0.50 Pick 5 at Scioto Downs rolls in Race 5 and it has a $10,000 guaranteed pool with a 14% takeout. It was a chalky
sequence last night with the 5/3/8/1,7/5 combination paying $74.15 on a 0.50 ticket.

On Friday, Chris Page led the drivers with six wins and conditioner Ron Burke was the top trainer with four pictures. All in all, it was a night of short prices but the races were competitive.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 5

1-Sectionline Bigry (7/2)-Rolled the back half in 55.2 in last week's qualifier. Winner in 10 of 20 starts at ScD looks set for a big effort in season debut.
5-My Hero Ron (5/2)-Just missed from the 9-hole in a tune-up and program chalk should be well backed.

Race 6

1-Hawk's Red Chief (3-1)-Got on the engine from the 7-hole and faded down the lane in qualifier. Could be facing an easier crew tonight and the Burke-Page combo has come out on fire.
4-Ponderingjacksfame (4-1)-Snagged a win from the 9-hole in a sharp tune-up and should like the company. Does have one win in four tries at ScD and it's best to respect tonight.

Race 7

5-Champion Rock (5-1)-Looking for a square price with a good post draw. This Pet Rock 5-year-old is the one and is no stranger to ScD. Has hit the board 13 times in 24 starts and should be forwardly placed.
9-Escapetothebeach (5/2)-This horse would be an odds-on choice with a decent post and still will be well backed. Could be a single for quite a few but from this post off a lay-off I won't be one of them.
10-Rockn Motion (7/2)-Here's another Burke pupil who comes off a quick mile win in a qualifier and is stuck with a second tier starting spot. The post draw doesn't help but deserves respect regardless.

Race 8

2-Mackeral A (6-1)-Makes U.S. debut and is first time Lasix as well. Hard to find fault with the 153.3 qualifier. Looks to be dialed on go for a big try.
3-Royale Rose (6-1)-Broke slowly from the rail in qualifier but sizzled the last half in 55.3. Will take a swing with a Smith's choice over the #1 and #2.
4-Blazin Baron (9/2)-Qualifier looked to be more of a training mile and Morgan trainee could be used more aggressively tonight. Has the gate speed to leave and could take a picture in a race without a standout.
5-Bambino Joe (7/2)-Raced a strong qualifier over a sloppy track at Nfld and might be over bet off that effort. Rhoades barn knows how to take pictures as does Merriman, so will include but look to others as well.

Race 9

8-Black Hole (5/2)-4-year-old comes off a dull qualifier but has won 9 out of 11 starts and holds a 150.4 mark here. This post will help the price and if dialed on high it may not matter.
10-Captain Sunshine (9/2)-First time Burke and smoked the qualifier in 151.2 all on his own. Page will need a good steer and maybe some luck from this post but best to not overlook.

0.50 Pick 5

1,5/1,4/5,9,10/2,3,4,5/8,10
Total Bet=$48

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:01 AM

My All Stakes Pick 5 Ticket Saturday at Churchill Downs

May 22, 2020 | By Jerry Shottenkirk
The $500,000 All Stakes Pick 5 is part of a tremendous card at Churchill Downs, and while it’s not Breeders’ Cup Day or Kentucky Derby Day, this program possesses quality far better than your average Saturday.

The 50-cent Pick 5 begins in the seventh and wraps up with the 11th. Top distaffers, turf horses and middle sprinters and Triple Crown race hopefuls. It’s a knockout of a card, and the suggested Pick 5 play here totals a higher-than-our-average $90 play with a 2x2x3x5x3 strategy.

Here’s a look at what’s cooking the sequence:

Race 7 (Shawnee S., 4:08 p.m. ET)

#4 DUNBAR ROAD (4/5) and #8 SHE'S A JULIE (2/1) are the most accomplished distaffers in this field, and those two should be enough for this slot. Dunbar Road was fifth in the Breeders’ Cup Distaff and had won three straight in New York last summer. She’s a Julie hasn’t raced since finishing fourth in the Spinster in October and has had her share of success at Churchill, winning half of her six starts.

Race 8 (Tepin S., 4:40 p.m. ET)

#9 SHARING (3/1) and #14 ALMS (3/1) aren’t having a match race in the Tepin. Or ARE they? Sharing won the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf last year and is 3 of 4. Graham Motion sends her out for the first time this season and she’s trained well for her first since that Cup triumph. Alms brings her 4 of 4 record into this one, and while she hasn’t won races the caliber of a Breeders’ Cup, she’s never been seriously threatened in the final sixteenth of any race and could be up to the task here.

Race 9 (Blame S., 5:12 p.m. ET)

Strong older middle-distance campaigners gather for the Blame, and this one is a bit more challenging on your Pick 5 ticket. #8 OWENDALE (3/1) makes his return off a seven-month vacation and last appeared over this strip, when he was second to Tom’s d’Etat in the Clark. He was third in the Preakness and won the Lexington, Ohio Derby and Oklahoma Derby in an impressive sophomore campaign. Owendale is a deep closer and will have to tune it up early to be in contention in this mile race. #3 GLOBAL CAMPAIGN (9/2) and #7 SILVER DUST (8/1) will offer plenty and are worthy of inclusion. Global Campaign has won four of six, took the Peter Pan and was third in the Jim Dandy last year. He came back with a sharp seven-furlong win at Gulfstream. Silver Dust won the Louisiana and Mineshaft Stakes, then tired to fifth in the New Orleans Classic. He’s a front-end threat and definitely has the credentials.

Race 10 (G3 Matt Winn S, 5:44 p.m. ET)

#10 MAXFIELD (5/2) makes his first start of the year and brings perfection after two starts. He broke his maiden from far off the pace at Churchill and then was dominant in the Grade 1 Breeders’ Futurity at Keeneland. He hasn’t start since October, but plenty of folks will have their money down on him. The Winn is far from a gimme. #2 PNEUMATIC (4/1) also is perfect in two starts, his coming at Oaklawn. He narrowly broke his maiden and then was more dominant against winners. #6 NY TRAFFIC (10/1) was second in the Louisiana Derby after he was third in the Risen Star. He drops back from 1 3-16th miles to 1 1-16th mile. #11 ATTACHMENT RATE (4/1) was third in the Gotham and followed with a second in the Unbridled. After a dismal debut, he’s been improving much of the way. #14 MAJOR FED (5/1) is 1 of 4 but was second in the Risen Star and then was a closing fourth in the Louisiana Derby. He has the form be a formidable player here.

Race 11 (War Chant S., 6:10 p.m. ET)

The Pick 5 ends with a mile turf race for 3-year-olds and it comes down to three on this ticket – Field Pass, Hieronymus and Billy Batts. Field Pass is working on a third straight victory. He won the Dania Beach on Gulfstream turf and then took the Jeff Ruby Stakes on the Turfway all-weather strip. Hieronymus is 4 of 5 and his only blemish came at Churchill last fall. He won three straight on the Fair Grounds turf, which is not easy to do. Billy Batts was unplaced in the Saudi Derby Cup in Saudi Arabia in February, but his form other than that has been sharp lately. He was a closing second in the Breeders’ Cup Juvenile Turf and won the Baffle Stakes at Santa Anita.

Here’s the suggested All-Stakes Pick 5 at Churchill Saturday:

Race 7: #4 Dunbar Road, #8 She’s a Julie.
Race 8: #9 Sharing, #14 Alms.
Race 9: #3 Global Campaign, #7 Silver Dust, #8 Owendale.
Race 10: #2 Pneumatic, #6 Ny Traffic, #10 Maxfield, #11 Attachment Rate, #12 Major Fed.
Race 11: #5 Field Pass, #6 Hieronymus, #13 Billy Batts.

Late Pick 5 Ticket: 8-9 with 9-14 with 3-7-8 with 2-6-10-11-12 with 5-6-13 ($90).

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:02 AM

Saturday, May 23: Sha Tin (Hong Kong) Picks

May 21, 2020
From Declan Schuster (Hong Kong Jockey Club)

SHA TIN SELECTIONS
Saturday, May 23, 2020

Race 1: #1 Sunny Star, #6 Smiling Face, #8 Super Ten, #7 Like That
Race 2: #6 So We Joy, #2 Leap of Faith, #3 Armor Star, #1 Lucky Puzzle
Race 3: #10 Enjoy Life, #2 Monster Kaka, #13 City Legend, #8 Bulletproof
Race 4: #2 Thanks Forever, #1 Hot King Prawn, #6 Jolly Banner, #4 Big Party
Race 5: #10 Good Luck Friend, #6 Biz Power, #1 Cruising, #4 Wind N Grass
Race 6: #9 Gallant Legacy, #10 Regency Poet, #3 Kinda Cool, #1 Sky Darci
Race 7: #5 Yee Cheong Pegasus, #7 Fast Pace, #10 Sparkling Star, #1 Xponential
Race 8: #1 Exultant, #2 Furore, #7 Savvy Nine, #3 Time Warp
Race 9: #1 World Famous, #8 Enzemble, #4 Charity Go, #2 Champion Supreme
Race 10: #2 Regency Bo Bo, #3 Beauty Smile, #9 Flying Victory, #1 Beauty Spirit
Race 11: #2 Glorious Spectrum, #3 Happy Fun, #14 Will Power, #12 Circuit Three

Race 1: Pakistan Star Plate

#1 Sunny Star scored on debut in impressive fashion and off that performance he rates as the one to beat here. He missed the kick and was badly squeezed at the start that day but to his credit let down nicely for a comfortable score. #6 Smiling Face comes out of the same race where he finished runner-up. He’s since done the same again and appears to be on an upward trajectory. #8 Super Ten finished a creditable fourth on debut. This is suitable and he gets in light with only 117lb on his back. #7 Like That won well last time out. He warrants respect with further improvement and the retention of Zac Purton’s services.

Race 2: Liberator Handicap

#6 So We Joy has shown steady improvement across his four-start career and he now appears ready to take that next step. This contest is suitable and with even luck he is the one to beat for the in-form Antoine Hamelin. #2 Leap Of Faith has twice finished runner-up this campaign. He has the ability and bears close watching in this contest. #3 Armor Star ran a blinder on debut to grab fourth. Zac Purton takes over now and this booking alone warrants respect. #1 Lucky Puzzle steps back into Class 4. He’ll relish racing in the weaker grade but the concern is the awkward draw.

Race 3: Mighty High Handicap

#10 Enjoy Life is looking to snap a streak of two runner-up efforts. He’s drawn to get the gun run for Joao Moreira and this race appears to be his for the taking. #2 Monster Kaka gets a handy ten pound claim thanks to apprentice jockey Jerry Chau. The wide gate is tricky but he should be competitive in this grade. #13 City Legend gets in light with only 118lb on his back. Karis Teetan takes the reins fresh off a winner on Wednesday and this horse does have the ability to take this out. #8 Bulletproof has drawn poorly once again. He’s lightly raced and has the ability to pick up some prize money here.

Race 4: G3 Sha Tin Vase (Handicap)

#2 Thanks Forever has been racing well this season and does have two G1 placings to his name, including last start’s Chairman Sprint Prize. He’s deserving of a win and with the good draw, he can take this out. #1 Hot King Prawn is in a similar boat with numerous G1 placings to his name also. He’s a model of consistency whose positive racing pattern will afford him every opportunity. #6 Jolly Banner gets in light and should be able to box on for some prize money. #4 Big Party will relish the sting out of the ground if it continues to rain. He can figure.

Race 5: Werther Handicap

#10 Good Luck Friend has hit the ground running in Hong Kong having won at only his second start two runs ago. He faces Class 3 for the first time now and with the soft gate he can put his best foot forward. #6 Biz Power is on the up. He closed strongly for a narrow fourth last time out and with further improvement, he can test these. #1 Cruising won’t be too far away. He gets a handy ten pound claim from Jerry Chau and this contest does appear suitable. #4 Wind N Grass rattled home for third last time out. He’s in-form and this is well within his grasp.

Race 6: Mr Medici Handicap

#9 Gallant Legacy turned his form around last start to score impressively. He remains in Class 4 following that performance and although this task appears more difficult, he does appear to now have finally figured out what it’s all about and with even luck could be able to go on with it again. #10 Regency Poet has been consistent across his short, yet competitive seven-start career. He’s racing well and looks well placed to go one better here for trainer Manfred Man who is having a brilliant season. #3 Kinda Cool has drawn poorly for his second start but off his debut second, he rates as a leading chance in this. Zac Purton hops up now and he has the ability, it’s just that life’s made hard exiting the stalls from that wide out. #1 Sky Darci is next best returning from a lengthy break for his first run of 2020.

Race 7: Helene Super Star Handicap

#5 Yee Cheong Pegasus doesn’t know how to run a bad race and his consistency deserves to be rewarded here. He’s finished inside the top two across five runs this term including a win, second-up from a break. He’s drawn to get the right run for Antoine Hamelin who is more than capable of getting the best out of him. #7 Fast Pace flashed home for fourth on debut. Zac Purton takes over now and the rail-draw should afford him every opportunity. #10 Sparkling Star has shown glimpses of ability. He can figure with the right run for Chad Schofield. #1 Xponential gets a key 10 pound claim from Jerry Chau, who also, breaks from gate four aboard the gelding. This is suitable and it wouldn’t surprise to see him take up the running.

Race 8: G1 Standard Chartered Champions & Chater Cup

#1 Exultant is Hong Kong’s champion stayer for a reason and if he can repeat his QEII Cup victory here, over 2400m, then he is easily the one to beat. The added distance should suit him as he can grind this field into submission and as well, with even weights, he rates as the one to beat. #2 Furore rattled home for second last start behind Exultant. He’s a classy animal and that run showed that he was not only ready but visually capable of seeing out the 2400m on offer here. #7 Savvy Nine closed for second over this course and distance to Chefano last start. He can handle the trip and with even luck he should be thereabouts. #3 Time warp is the likely leader of this. He’ll need a soft lead if he is to pinch this but even still, he can stick on gamely for prize money.

Race 9: Blazing Speed Handicap

#1 World Famous kept on well first-up from a two month break last start to finish fifth, beaten by only a length. That was a game run and if he’s come on from that, he’s capable of running this bunch into the ground, as long as he is fit. #8 Enzemble got off the mark two starts ago and since then finished third at his latest. He has the wide gate to contend with but gets 10 pounds off thanks to Jerry Chau’s claim which should assist him in the finish. #4 Charity Go is more than capable and his last two performances have been excellent. He’s consistent and it won’t surprise to see it rewarded here. #2 Champion Supreme pieced it all together last start and he was racing well enough prior to warrant respect. He’ll be thereabouts in the same grade.

Race 10: California Memory Handicap

#2 Regency Bo Bo did well to finish where he did last time out from gate 14 and this time breaks favourably from gate three. Zac Purton sticks aboard which is a plus and as a five-time winner from 42 starts, his experience and consistency holds him in very good stead for a contest like this. #3 Beauty Smile has done well in both of his Hong Kong starts. He narrowly missed on debut before closing strongly from and awkward gate for fourth at his latest. He’s right in this. #9 Flying Victory is looking for back-to-back wins. He remains in Class 3 off that win which suits and with only 121lb on his back he is very well-weighted. #1 Beauty Spirit is next best.

Race 11: Viva Pataca Handicap

#2 Glorious Spectrum has returned in excellent order since his lengthy layoff and he looks capable of grabbing a first, Hong Kong win here. Antoine Hamelin sticks aboard after driving him to a close-up second last start and from the good gate, the pair rate to get a good run throughout. #3 Happy Fun can roll forward and make all for Zac Purton. He’s drawn to do no work and if he can dictate terms from the get-go, then he’s a chance of pinching this contest. #14 switches to the turf for the first time after winning three races from five runs on the dirt. He gets in light and expected to handle the grass. #12 Circuit Three is next best if he can recapture his best which saw him win three in a row.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:05 AM

Saturday, May 23: Santa Anita Late Pick 4 Ticket

May 21, 2020 | By Dustin Fabian
It’s great to have Santa Anita back on our Track List and we’re excited for a phenomenal weekend of racing there, including five graded stakes races between Saturday and Monday.

Saturday’s slate features the G2 Charles Whittingham Stakes, starring Breeders’ Cup Turf runner-up United, and the G3 Daytona Stakes for turf sprinters, showcasing five horses that have already won this year sprinting on the lawn.

And Monday’s card is arguably even better, headlined by the G1 Shoemaker Mile. The field for that race is expected to include multiple horses for Mark Casse – War of Will and March to the Arch – and multiple horses for Chad Brown – Without Parole and Raging Bull – as well as top local horses River Boyne and True Valour. Plus, Monday’s card also features the G1 Gamely Stakes and G2 Monrovia Stakes, both on the turf.

Since Saturday’s entries are already out, here’s my take on their Late Pick 4. Good luck to everyone playing and have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend!

Race 6 – Claiming – 6F on Dirt

The kickoff leg of the Late Pick 4 is a $12,500 claiming race and none of these horses really jump off the page. #1 MIDNIGHT GARDEN won at first asking against low-level maiden claimers, but ends up stuck with an inside draw here, as opposed to the outside post she had last time. We’ll find out how she feels about racing inside and behind horses. #2 SYBIL’S KITTY was really disappointing as the favorite in a similar race here on March 15. Her races in October and December would probably win this for fun, but she’s headed in a negative direction. And #3 REAL GOOD DEAL is probably the likeliest winner, attracting Flavien Prat for the Leonard Powell barn.

Race 7 – Starter Optional Claiming – 5 1/2 F on Dirt

Many factors line up here for #7 LOVELY LILIA as she returns to California off an OK effort at Oaklawn. Those Oaklawn races were loaded with talent and I love that she raced in April, as that might mean she is fitter than a number of her opponents. You have to think they’ll send and hope to never look back. #1 SUGAR PICKEL gets back to the dirt off two decent turf tries at this level on the lawn. Her lone dirt race was a win at Los Al and, if anything, it’s notable that Abel Cedillo, who has ridden both LOVELY LILIA and SUGAR PICKEL in the past, opts to ride here.

Race 8 – Charles Whittingham S. (G2) – 1 1/4 Miles on Turf

It’s not easy to knock #5 UNITED as he goes out for a Hall of Fame trainer (Richard Mandella) with the track’s top rider (Flavien Prat) in the irons. This horse took some time to come around, but he has won or placed in five of his last six races with Prat in the saddle, including a win in the G2 San Marcos last out on this course and at this distance. He is just versatile enough to sit closer to the pace in what appears to be a paceless event. The only one that I could see threatening him on his best day is Chad Brown’s #7 ROCKEMPEROR. I was encouraged by his third-place finish in the G2 Mervin Muniz last out at the Fair Grounds as he closed from far back to finish third on a course that favored speed.

Race 9 – Maiden Claiming – 1 1/16 Miles on Dirt

The good news is, if we start this Late Pick 4 going 3x2x2 we have some room in the holster for the last. First and foremost, in races like this starring a host of horses that haven’t won, I’m almost always going to include the first time starters, so #7 MONGOLIAN WIND and #11 BEAUMONT BEAUX make the cut, despite going out for relatively low-percentage local barns. Let’s also add #2 VODKA TWIST, who adds blinkers and drops in class from tougher turf races, as well as #9 DR. HOFFMAN (Flavien Prat) and #12 SLAAH (Risopoli), who get upgrades to top jocks. Finally, I’ll use #4 MY JOURNEY, who might kick away from this field if nobody runs with him early.

My Ticket

Race 6: 1, 2, 3
Race 7: 1, 7
Race 8: 5, 7
Race 9: 2, 4, 7, 9, 11, 12

Ticket Cost: $36 for 50-cents

If we hit, it won’t be a home run but it should be enough to keep you playing. And if you don’t believe in Rockemperor, you can always single United and play the ticket for a dollar at the same $36 cost.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:05 AM

Race of the Week: Charles Whittingham at Santa Anita

May 21, 2020 | By Jeremy Plonk
GRADE 2 $200,000 CHARLES WHITTINGHAM STAKES
Saturday, May 23, 2020
By Jeremy Plonk

The Lead:
Santa Anita's Saturday program co-features something short and something long in the turf division. The 5-1/2 furlong Grade 3 Daytona Stakes kicks off the late pick five in Race 5, but it's the 1-1/4 miles Grade 2 Whittingham in Race 8 that garners Race of the Week attention. The 'Bald Eagle,' Charlie Whittingham, was one of the game's most legendary trainers. He won more races at Santa Anita and the former Hollywood Park than any other conditioner over his nearly 50-year career. Outside of his California homebase, he was best known for winning the 1986 Kentucky Derby with Ferdinand as well as the 1989 Derby and Preakness with Sunday Silence.

Field Depth:
Grade 2 winner UNITED was runner-up in the 2019 Grade 1 Breeders' Cup Turf. DESERT STONE is a Grade 2 winner on the local turf. MULTIPLIER is a Grade 3 winner and Grade 1-placed on dirt. ROCKEMPEROR also is Grade 1-placed. ORIGINAIRE is multiple Grade 2-placed. UNITED has faced the toughest competition, but DESERT STONE and ROCKEMPEROR also have kept top-class company.

Pace:
At 1-1/4 miles on turf, the race starts downhill and sometimes can help early speed horses carry their stamina farther than a traditional 1-1/4 miles race. There's very little early speed expected among this group, where BOLD ENDEAVOR and SYNTHESIS are most likely to lead a slow tempo. A deep closer would appear compromised by this pace scenario.

Our Eyes:
UNITED surprisingly had yet to win a stakes race before capturing February's Grade 2 San Marcos. Richard Mandella's 5-year-old Giant's Causeway gelding had hit the board in the 2019 Whittingham, John Henry, Breeders' Cup Turf and Hollywood Turf Cup, losing that quartet of star races by less than 3 combined lengths. He didn't leave much margin in his breakthrough win, either, scoring the San Marcos by a half-length as the 4-5 favorite. Hot-riding Flavien Prat came off the shutdown ready to roll, winning 10 races at Santa Anita during the 3-day, re-opening weekend. UNITED will tote top weight of 126 pounds, 6 more than he carried in the San Marcos, and will give 4 pounds in the Whittingham to all rivals except equal-weighted DESERT STONE.

DESERT STONE's Grade 2 San Gabriel score in January puts him at equal weights with the favorite. He's been a mile to 1-1/8 miles performer throughout his career. The downhill configuration could help get him the extra furlong or so in the Whittingham. The Richard Baltas trainee has been inconsistent and rarely pairs consecutive good efforts. He followed the San Gabriel win with a ninth of 10 in the Grade 1 Kilroe Mile. Jockey Abel Cedillo takes the mount for the first time. The Betmix database shows Cedillo just a 12% rider on the Santa Anita turf lifetime, but he's won 5 stakes races (4 graded) so far in 2020 over this grass course.

ROCKEMPEROR is the new face to the west coast scene. The Chad Brown trainee likely goes as a clear second choice in the betting under Irad Ortiz, Jr. The 4-year-old finished sixth in last year's Group 1 French Derby at Chantilly. He's 0-for-3 since coming stateside to Brown, and his late-closing style has netted third-place finishes in the Grade 1 Belmont Derby last summer and the Grade 2 Muniz Memorial at Fair Grounds most recently in March. He hasn't shown the ability yet to stay close to the pace, so he'll have to mix it up a bit here to keep in contact. Watching his workout videos at XBTV.com, he's trying to do more in the morning and being held up by his rider. He might be more keen here Saturday than on paper.

MULTIPLIER is entered back on just 7 days' rest by trainer Peter Miller, following a third-place finish in a tough dirt allowance mile at Santa Anita last Saturday. Betmix data shows Miller just 1-for-his-last-22 when trying to wheel a horse back on a week or less rest. The 6-year-old is just 1-for-13 on turf in his career, but that victory did come at Santa Anita in a 1-1/8 miles allowance in 2018. The problem is that was also his last victory, and it came some 16 races ago followed by a lengthy losing streak.

ORIGINAIRE is an improving 4-year-old who could be a part of the SoCal turf division for years to come. Last year's Grade 2 Del Mar Derby runner-up ran 2 outstanding races this winter at Santa Anita, a runner-up in the Grade 2 Mathis Brothers Mile and a blistering 1:46-2/5 allowance victory over the Whittingham distance in February. The seldom-seen tandem of Umberto Rispoli and Jeff Mullins have been highly successful individually on the local green over the past year.

Most Certain Exotics Contender: UNITED has 8 straight superfecta finishes and was in superb form before the mandated shutdown.

Best Longshot Exotics Contender: Pace players BOLD ENDEAVOR and SYNTHESIS have been primarily dirt horses and combined are 6: 0-0-0 on turf. Mike Smith partners with BOLD ENDEAVOR, while SYNTHESIS will be ridden by underrated turf pilot Geovanni Franco. You could see 1 of these holding for a share of the exotics under expert handling at a price.

Sending it in ($100 bankroll): $65 exacta UNITED over ROCKEMPEROR. $35 exacta UNITED over ORIGINAIRE.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:06 AM

Brian Nadeau's Daily Picks

Tampa Bay Downs - Race #1

#2 Fried Plantaine	MSW dropper was thrown to the wolves last time but flashed speed and held relatively well to be 6th, so this is obviously a much weaker group, and Mejia has been firing this year; look out.
#4 W W Archie	GP invader drops, and also moves into the potent local Delgado barn, so he could move way up, especially from this attack post with an already speedy running style; looms the main danger
#5 Lebasi	The best of the locals at the level was a solid enough 2nd to a romping winner last time, and that would normally work here, but the top-2 seem a cut above for the the 10k; underneath only.
Race Summary	That 7-2 ML seems awfully juicy on the pick, as not only does her take a huge class drop, but he does so for a barn that has been really firing of late, so play him aggressively to win and place at 5-2 or better, while getting some additional value by keying him to kick off the early Pk5, as he looks poised for a breakthrough run.

Tampa Bay Downs - Race #4

#5 Totally Perfect	MSW dropper took a hint of money on debut, broke last-of-11, then ran on nicely to be close early and 6th late, now meets much easier, and a crew there for the taking, and should be much tighter this time, at a nice price; spotted to score.
#7 Hyperloop	The chalk was a fast 2nd on debut then bombed on the turf, and while he's back with friends and will be tough, they don't always come back like they left when they got beaten up, and the price will be a short one to find out too; second-best.
#2 Drive In	Pace player moves up in class off the Sweezey claim (an 18% angle) and he should be involved throughout, though this inside draw will force him to run hard throughout, especially with his running style; know him early, not sure about late.
Race Summary	That 12-1 ML seems way too good to be true on the 5, who takes the biggest drop in racing and hinted at good things on debut, but even half that seems fair, so give him a look in all the slots, while getting some additional value by using him in the early Pk5/Pk4 as well, since he could move up in a big way here off that useful debut.

Tampa Bay Downs - Race #9

#6 The Connector	MSW dropper sprinted on debut for Proctor, who never wins with firsters, so that 5th was good enough, and now, on the stretch and class relief, he looks primed; expecting a breakthrough.
#2 K's Funhouse	Dangerous sort drew well and will like getting back to turf, and he too runs for a tag on the grass for the first time, so if he runs back to the grass 4th two-back, he'll be a threat; major player.
#10 Empty Holster	Dicey ML favorite goes off the Bennett claim (14%) after a close 2nd at the level last time, but this post is no bargain, and the top pair have a lot more upside as well; mixed signals here.
Race Summary	You won't get rich on the 6 but he really should be favored, based on the debut run, the added ground/turn, and the expected improvement, so play him aggressively to win and place if the tote allows, while getting some built-in value by keying him to end the latePk5/Pk4, since you're allowed to surmise this was the spot a very, very savvy conditioner had in mind all along.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:06 AM

Brian W. Spencer's Daily Picks

Gulfstream Park - Race #7

#3 Jades Gelly	Love the fact that this owner/trainer combo went right back in after this filly after she got claimed away, and they immediately take the blinkers off and protect her while running her back against the boys.
#7 Miami Crockett	Likely short price looks like the one to beat with a perfect 3-for-3 record over this local trip, but he's probably not going to get a very serious breather at any point today.
#6 Remaster	Blinkers go on for this first try off the claim, and he should be right in the mix from the start with the equipment change.
Race Summary	The connections of Jades Gelly wanted her back badly enough to claim her out of a maiden win, and it's encouraging that she's not in for a tag today.

Gulfstream Park - Race #9

#5 My Friend Flavin	Isn't what he used to be, but he has always done really good work locally and might get the right kind of trip at this 7f run.
#1 Malibu Max	Finisher has been settling for plenty of underneath slices in the last couple years, and even on the drop I wouldn't want to take too short a number.
#6 Examiner	Has been in with better in New Orleans, and he may appreciate the added ground today.
Race Summary	My Friend Flavin has some room to wake up off a disappointing meet at Fair Grounds. He has been in the exacta in six of his eight local starts and should offer a generous price with the dull form in tow.

Gulfstream Park - Race #4

#7 Sheknowsthedrill	Might be able to find the front on the move to a mile, and she ran the best race of her life the only time she made a clear lead. Hoping she makes a break for it.
#10 Witch Hunter	No doubt she can win this, but she lost at 1/5 last time out and didn't return to the worktab for a month for the new barn. Hard pass at a short price.
#2 Upsy Daisy Do	Has been out 15 times without landing one, and she's no sure thing to run back to that good effort last time out. Underneath.
Race Summary	Sheknowsthedrill should get a good run right up on the splits today, and if she finds herself alone at any point in the lane, she might get brave.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:07 AM

Frank Carulli's Daily Picks

Scioto Downs - Race #1

#3 BUCKETHEAD FRED	Drops, gets better post, nearing $200,000 in earnings.
#2 ARCH O MATIC	Followed move of second-tier winner after fave broke stride early.
#5 HOGWARTS EXPRESS	Rallied for third the last two times he stayed flat at Miami Valley.
Race Summary	Buckethead Fred gets needed class relief after drawing outside posts in fast heats at Miami Valley. He fits well with this group in bid for 21st victory. Play 3-5 and 3-6 exactas.

Scioto Downs - Race #2

#5 PINE KNOT TUFF	Proven after time away, projects similar trip to useful qualifier.
#1 VEGAS AGAIN	Gets Merriman, gets pace to rally into, but 1-52 since 2019 the knock.
#6 NOAH Z TAM	Sutton’s choice on a triple call after he piloted in the qualifier.
Race Summary	Pine Knot Tuff earned a big number when he won off a longer layoff than this to begin the year. He should sit in mid-pack off a lively pace and be a major player late. Play a 1-5-6 exacta box.

Scioto Downs - Race #8

#1 LOCKTON LUCK A	Faced better at Yonkers, showed up in qualifier, draws rail.
#2 MACKERAL A	Good record in Australia, gets Lasix for U.S. debut, price attached.
#3 ROYALE ROSE	Stayed in at key juncture but lacked kick when free mid-turn.
Race Summary	Lockton Luck A advanced 3-wide in the third quarter and finished widest against sharp rivals at Yonkers to get beat 3-1/2 lengths. He won his local qualifier despite broken equipment, so give him the nod from the rail.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:07 AM

Jerry Shottenkirk's Daily Picks

Remington Park - Race #1

#9 Wit K O	Was 3rd in 2 of 3 races and can get in front early in this one; one to catch.
#1 Miss Kool Breeze	Didn't break well and finished 8th last time out but had a pair of 3rd-place finishes prior to that; fits nicely.
#4 Shez My Secret	Lost a photo in her only start and stretches out a bit; can make a good run with this group.
Race Summary	Wit KO has run well most of the time, gets a clear run from the outside and should be able to graduate.

Remington Park - Race #5

#2 Vf Showtime	Was an even 5th in a good maiden race last out; takes a drop to maiden claiming and can improve.
#1 Tres Martinis	Has been outrun in both tries but was against some formidable opposition; big player.
#8 Bv Myheartwillgoon	Showed good speed in all three races and can improve with this drop in class; will be well supported.
Race Summary	Vf Showtime didn't fire in his 1st career start, moves to an inside post and likely will move up in this spot.

Remington Park - Race #6

#8 Jacksons Dynasty	Tired late in his last one and should be able to get a good jump on these; one to catch.
#6 Jb Inseperablehearts	Was 2nd in 2 of his last 4 and likely will be forward factor throughout.
#10 Purdy High Valentine	Has been on the board in 6 of 10, can get a clear run run the outside and looms a legit threat.
Race Summary	Jacksons Dynasty failed as the favorite last time, stretches out in distance and faces a group he should be able to beat.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:08 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Tampa Bay Downs

Tampa Bay Downs - Race 3	Daily Double / Exacta / Trifecta ($.50 minimum) / Superfecta ($.10 minimum) Pick 3 ($.50 minimum) (Races 3-4-5) / Super High 5
Claiming $8,000 • 1 Mile 40 yards • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 71 • Purse: $10,000 • Post: 1:38P
FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE AT A MILE OR OVER SINCE APRIL 23 ALLOWED 3 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $8,000 (RACES WHERE ENTERED FOR $6,250 OR LESS NOT CONSIDERED IN ALLOWANCES) (REGISTERED FLORIDA BREDS PREFERRED).

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Paceless Race. There is no true early speed in this race. * KEY ANGLES * DONNIE BRASCO: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. IRISH MAIL: Horse has the highest average Equib ase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. Horse's average winning distance is within half a furlong of today's distance (within 50 yards if a Quarter Horse race). SOMETHING BIRD: Horse has the highest average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/s urface. Horse's average winning distance is within half a furlong of today's distance (within 50 yards if a Quarter Horse race). SILENT MISCHIEF: Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. Jockey/Trainer combination return on i nvestment is at least +20.
8	DONNIE BRASCO	2/1	4/1
7	IRISH MAIL	20/1	6/1
4	SOMETHING BIRD	4/1	8/1
6	SILENT MISCHIEF	10/1	9/1

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
6	SILENT MISCHIEF	6	10/1	Alternator/Stalker	69	61	69.4	42.0	31.0
8	DONNIE BRASCO	8	2/1	Alternator/Stalker	77	76	60.4	71.8	67.8
2	YADI	2	7/2	Alternator/Stalker	68	66	56.2	53.0	44.5
1	BRANDY CHASER	1	5/2	Alternator/Stalker	67	58	55.8	47.6	36.6
5	HALEL	5	12/1	Alternator/Stalker	67	59	47.4	55.9	46.9
7	IRISH MAIL	7	20/1	Alternator/Trailer	69	74	66.9	68.2	60.7
4	SOMETHING BIRD	4	4/1	Alternator/Trailer	80	69	63.0	42.4	34.9
3	ENDURING ARCH	3	30/1	Alternator/Trailer	70	64	29.4	52.1	39.1

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:08 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Ruidoso Downs

Ruidoso Downs - Race 13	1st Half Late Daily Double / Exacta / Trifecta / .10 Superfecta 2nd Leg Pick 3 / 3rd Leg Pick 4 / 4th Leg Pick 5 / .50 Pentafecta
Trial • 350 Yards • Dirt • Age 2 • CR: 83 • Purse: $8,000 • Post: 4:36P
QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR TWO YEAR OLDS THAT WERE NOMINATED AND REMAIN ELIGIBLE FOR THE 2020 RUIDOSO QUARTER HORSE FUTURITY. WEIGHT: 124 LBS. ALL HORSES MUST ENTER FOR THE TRIALS ON FRIDAY MAY 15, 2020 BY 10:00 A. M. AND PAY THE $1,200 ENTRY FEE, IF THEY ARE TO RUN IN THE TRIALS. LATE NOMINATIONS OF $30,000 (INCLUDES ALL FEES) WILL BE ACCEPTED UNTIL TIME OF ENTRY INTO THE TRIALS. THOSE WHO WANT TO REMAIN ELIGIBLE FOR THE 2021 RUIDOSO DERBY, BUT ELECT NOT TO RUN IN THE 2020 RUIDOSO FUTURITY TIME TRIALS MAY DO SO IF THEY ARE STILL ELIGIBLE AT THE TIME OF ENTRY INTO THE TRIALS, BY PAYING THE $1,200 ENTRY FEE INTO THE RUIDOSO FUTURITY TIME TRIALS. THE FIVE FASTEST TIMES FROM THE TRIALS FOR EACH DAY WILL QUALIFY FOR THE FINALS. THERE WILL BE NO ALSO ELIGIBLE LIST FOR THE FINALS. NOTE: ALL RACES THIS DAY WILL BE TRIALS, FIRST POST TIME MAY CHANGE DUE TO THE NUMBER OF RACES.

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Not Applicable (Quarter Horse). * KEY ANGLES * LUMINOSITI: Quarter Horse has a Fast Break Style designation and no horse in a post position next to it gets out of the gate fast. Quarter horse has the highest last race Equibase Speed R ating. Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation.
7	LUMINOSITI	3/1	4/5

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
7	LUMINOSITI	7	3/1	Fast	71	57	0.0	0.0	0.0

Unknown Running Style: HATEFUL RHETORIC (9/2) [Jockey: Herrera Raul - Trainer: Joiner Michael W], NIKOLA (15/1) [Jockey: Rivera Alonso - Trainer: Padgett II James B], FAVORITE JOB (8/1) [Jockey: Calderon Francisco - Trainer: Stinebaugh John A], ATYPI

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:09 AM

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Golden Gate Fields - Race #7 - Post: 4:00pm - Allowance - 8.5 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $31,000 Class Rating: 93

Rating:

#1 OUR BOLD PRINCESS (ML=4/1)
#7 GOLDEN IRIS (GB) (ML=2/1)
#6 SUNBLESSED (IRE) (ML=6/1)
#3 FAIRY TALE BLISS (ML=12/1)

OUR BOLD PRINCESS - Amador and Rich perform well when they join forces. It's hard to beat a +194 return on investment for a jockey and handler. Mare put in a good late run at 6 furlongs and should relish the added distance today. GOLDEN IRIS (GB) - Last race March 22nd was pretty strong for a $25,000 Optional Claiming race so this mare's effort wasn't all that bad. A repeat of that last race on Mar 22nd where she garnered a speed rating of 94 looks strong enough to triumph in this clash. Even though she isn't from around here, when a noble animal has hit the board at a big time foreign racing venue she will usually give a good account of herself soon after shipping. SUNBLESSED (IRE) - Nice return on investment for this jock and handler tandem. Lets try to beat the favorites with this filly. Just missed last out, but ran a pretty good race. FAIRY TALE BLISS - I have to like this filly's likelihood of winning at the shorter trip.

Vulnerable Contenders: #5 NOBLE CONTESSA (ML=7/2), #4 SLOANE GARDEN (GB) (ML=6/1),

NOBLE CONTESSA - Pace is so vital, and this early speedster is going to have a speed battle on her hands. When examining today's class rating, she will have to notch a much better speed rating than last time out to battle in this turf route. SLOANE GARDEN (GB) - Doubtful that this horse will finish better than she did last time when finishing fifth. Don't feel this pony will make an impact today. That last speed rating was quite unimpressive when compared with today's class rating.

STRAIGHT WAGERS:	#1 OUR BOLD PRINCESS is the play if we get odds of 9/2 or better
EXACTA WAGERS:	Box [1,3]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:	Skip
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:	Skip
SUPER HIGH FIVE WAGERS:	Pass

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:09 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Lone Star Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 4 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $34000 Class Rating: 85

FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 119 LBS.; OLDER, 122 LBS.

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 3 GOVERNALE 2/1
# 1 LOOKIN HIGH 12/1
# 7 SECULAR STAGNATION 8/5

I've got to go with GOVERNALE. Asmussen has this colt racing well and is a competitive choice based on the competitive Equibase Speed Figures earned in route races recently. With a competitive 94 speed figure last time out, will clearly be a factor in this outing. He has formidable class ratings, averaging 95, and has to be considered in this contest. LOOKIN HIGH - Overall the Equibase speed figs of this racer look quite good in this race. SECULAR STAGNATION - Have to bet on this money-making jockey and trainer duo. Put up a strong speed fig last time out.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 05-23-2020, 08:10 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Remington Park

Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 7 - Maiden Claiming - 300y on the Dirt. Purse: $17200 Class Rating: 64

QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR ACCREDITED OKLAHOMA-BREDS MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $20,000.

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 9 MY PRIZE FERARRI 6/1
# 1 BP PRIMETIME 5/1
# 2 HADLEY GIRL 8/1

MY PRIZE FERARRI appears to be the bet in here. Could best this field based on the Equibase Speed Fig - 55 - of her last effort. Must be carefully examined given the class of races run recently. This filly looks like a live longshot. BP PRIMETIME - He has been racing well lately while recording very solid speed figures. Will almost certainly go to the front end and should never look back. HADLEY GIRL - Change in Lasix (with second time Lasix) may be the recipe to a return to the track. Crawford has a strong 17 percent win rate with entries running at this distance and surface.