Saturday 2/3/24 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:36 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Coast To Coast

PURCHASE

Coast To Coast - Race 5	Race 12 from Gulfstream Park Leg E of the Coast to Coast Pick 5
Stakes • 1 1/16 Miles • Dirt • Age 3 • CR: 97 • Purse: $250,000 • Post: 5:45P
HOLY BULL S. GP - R12 - GRADE 3 RACE 12 FROM GULFSTREAM PARK. THREE YEAR OLDS. FREE NOMINATION BY SUNDAY, JANUARY 21, $2,500 TO ENTER. $250,000 GUARANTEED. A SUPPLEMENTAL NOMINATION FEE OF $100 MAY BE MADE PRIOR TO CLOSING TIME OF ENTRIES. AFTER PAYMENT OF 1% TO ALL OWNERS OF HORSES FINISHING SIXTH THROUGH LAST, 62% OF THE REMAINING PURSE SHALL BE PAID TO THE OWNER OF THE WINNER, 20% TO SECOND, 10% TO THIRD, 5% TO FOURTH, AND 3% TO FIFTH. *(FTBOA OFFERS UP TO $20,000 TO THE OWNERS OF REGISTERED FLORIDA-BREDS, DIVIDED $10,000 TO THE WINNER, $6,000 TO SECOND, $4,000 TO THIRD). WEIGHT: 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A GRADED STAKES AT A MILE OR OVER ALLOWED 2 LBS.; A STAKES RACE, 4 LBS.; A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER OR STATE-BRED ALLOWANCE, 6 LBS. STARTERS TO BE NAMED BY USUAL TIME OF CLOSING. ALL FEES SHALL BE PAID PRIOR TO THE START OF THE RACE. PREFERENCE WILL BE GIVEN TO STAKES WINNERS, STAKES PLACED THEN BY HIGHEST CAREER EARNINGS. TROPHY TO THE WINNING OWNER.

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Basic Race. This race has a mixed pace scenario. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners (to look for a lone Front-runner). * KEY ANGLES * FIERCENESS: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. DOMESTIC PRODUCT: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. OTELLO: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. D ANCING GROOM: Horse had a bullet workout within the last seven days.
7	FIERCENESS	3/5	4/1
6	DOMESTIC PRODUCT	8/1	7/1
3	OTELLO	9/2	8/1
4	DANCING GROOM	30/1	9/1
1	HADES	6/1	10/1

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
7	FIERCENESS	7	3/5	Front-runner	93	106	48.1	87.9	85.9
6	DOMESTIC PRODUCT	6	8/1	Alternator/Front-runner	82	88	54.8	78.3	70.3
1	HADES	1	6/1	Stalker	80	87	83.1	83.1	74.6
8	SEA STREAK	8	20/1	Stalker	92	68	54.3	65.3	57.3
2	INVEIGLED	2	12/1	Stalker	92	72	52.9	68.7	55.7
3	OTELLO	3	9/2	Trailer	88	81	61.0	77.4	70.9
4	DANCING GROOM	4	30/1	Trailer	89	85	49.7	78.6	70.6
5	NO MORE TIME	5	12/1	Alternator/Non-contender	80	78	46.1	75.0	61.0

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:37 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Cross Country Pick FourPURCHASE

Cross Country Pick Four - Race 5	Leg E of the Cross Country Pick 5
Stakes • 1 1/16 Miles • Dirt • Age 3 • CR: 98 • Purse: $800,000 • Post: 5:42P
SOUTHWEST S. OP - R11 - GRADE 3 THREE YEAR OLDS.

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * CARBONE: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse had a bullet workout within the last seven days. OTTO THE CONQUEROR: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse had a bullet workout within the last seven days. JUST ST EEL: Horse had a bullet workout within the last seven days. Horse has a TrackMaster "+" designation or an "L" designation. WYNSTOCK: Horse's win percentage at today's distance(sprint or route)/surface (dirt or turf) is at least 50. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface.
7	CARBONE	9/2	4/1
4	OTTO THE CONQUEROR	5/1	7/1
11	JUST STEEL	8/1	8/1
5	WYNSTOCK	4/1	8/1

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
4	OTTO THE CONQUEROR	4	5/1	Front-runner	92	93	107.1	81.5	73.5
10	MYSTIK DAN	10	12/1	Front-runner	86	94	92.7	77.8	70.8
11	JUST STEEL	11	8/1	Front-runner	101	94	89.9	79.8	69.8
7	CARBONE	7	9/2	Front-runner	90	97	84.4	92.9	89.4
1	MAYCOCKS BAY	1	3/1	Alternator/Front-runner	79	86	68.7	80.7	59.7
5	WYNSTOCK	5	4/1	Stalker	91	87	89.4	83.6	70.6
8	COMMON DEFENSE	8	15/1	Stalker	91	84	84.6	80.2	69.2
6	LIBERAL ARTS	6	8/1	Trailer	92	87	87.5	83.1	69.6
3	MAGIC GRANT	3	30/1	Trailer	90	79	83.4	77.7	61.2
9	LINEBACKER	9	30/1	Trailer	92	89	78.7	78.7	68.2
12	AWESOME ROAD	12	8/1	Alternator/Non-contender	75	81	76.4	72.1	56.6
2	CHARLESTON	2	30/1	Alternator/Non-contender	81	73	72.6	58.1	35.6

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:37 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Golden Hour Wagers

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

Race 3 - Optional Claiming - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $67000 Class Rating: 104

SA - R10 - FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON $18,000 ONCE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING, STARTER, OR STATE BRED OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES OR CLAIMING PRICE $50,000. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. NON-WINNERS OF A RACE OTHER THAN MAIDEN, CLAIMING OR STARTERAT A MILE OR OVER ALLOWED 2 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $50,000 (NON-STARTERS FOR A CLAIMING PRICE OF $25,000 OR LESS IN THEIR LAST 3

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 9 SYDNEY STREET (GB) 9/2
# 11 SANTO DIOS (ARG) 8/1
# 14 VANTASTIC 5/1

My selection in this competition is SYDNEY STREET (GB). Should be given consideration here on the basis of the figures in the speed realm alone. Could best this group of animals based on the Equibase Speed Fig - 103 - of his last affair. Looks competitive for the conditions of this contest today, showing solid numbers in turf route races as of late. SANTO DIOS (ARG) - Must be given a shot - I like the figs from the last contest. Is tough not to consider based on Equibase Speed Figures which have been quite good - 98 avg - of late. VANTASTIC - He must be given a chance given the very good speed figures. Ran a strong last race.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:37 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Los Alamitos (Quarter Horse)

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

Race 9 - Allowance - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $15000 Class Rating: 89

QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR FOUR YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD. FOUR YEAR OLDS, 126 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS.

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 2 EL AVENTURERO 8/5
# 4 PRAGMATIC 6/1
# 5 BH FREE DROP BILLY 15/1

EL AVENTURERO has a competitive shot to take this race. Displays the look of a money-making play, averaging a solid 83 speed figure which is one of the most respectable in this group of horses. This gelding obviously likes the distance, going 3 out of 12 in his races lately. Has to be given consideration for this race if only for the competitive Equibase Speed Fig recorded in the last race. PRAGMATIC - Formidable average speed figures in short races make this pony a definite contender. Flores has a solid win percent with horses running in short races. BH FREE DROP BILLY - Ought to go to the lead and should never look back.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:37 AM

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

PURCHASE

Charles Town - Race #6 - Post: 9:32pm - Allowance - 4.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $27,400 Class Rating: 84

Rating:

#1 PINK DINGHY (ML=6/1)
#5 HOPPING HENRY (ML=6/1)

PINK DINGHY - Have to believe this early speed horse has a nice chance on this bullring. A quick move out of the gate, and this one gets position. The December 8th event at Charles Town was at a class level of (89). Dropping down in class significantly, so he should be in a good position to win. This animal is at the top in earnings per race. He looks strong in today's affair. HOPPING HENRY - Sterling brings him right back. I suggest you stay with this hot gelding.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 TEACHINTHERELEASE (ML=6/5), #2 EPIC TIME (ML=7/2), #4 GOLDEN ARM (ML=5/1),

TEACHINTHERELEASE - December 8th is the last time we've seen this gelding around. Have to be a little bit leery. EPIC TIME - Finished second in his most recent performance with a somewhat easily forgotten speed fig. When I look at today's class rating, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this field. Ran a great speed figure last time around the track, but the try will probably take too much out of him. GOLDEN ARM - Didn't show much last time. Probably won't make a winning move in today's race. This vulnerable equine ran a quite unimpressive speed fig last out. He shouldn't show signs of improvement and will probably lose in today's event running that figure.

STRAIGHT WAGERS:	Have to go with #1 PINK DINGHY on the win end if we get at least 5/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:	Box [1,5]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:	Skip
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:	None

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:38 AM

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

PURCHASE

Golden Gate Fields - Race #2 - Post: 2:07pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,000 Class Rating: 83

Rating:

#3 WARRENS CANDY MAN (ML=8/1)
#7 STAY LIT (ML=4/1)
#1 EFFECTIVE GIG (ML=9/5)

WARRENS CANDY MAN - This horse could be tough today, especially since Couton rode last time out and now should be more familiar with this one. Was in an $8,000 Claiming race at Golden Gate Fields last time around the track. That race had a class rating of 94 and he is moving down in today's race. A certain contender. Personally, I wouldn't worry about where he finished in his last race (seventh). Should improve in this event, with some respectable odds. STAY LIT - You always have to be on the lookout for revenue generating jockey/conditioner combinations; we have one right here. According to well-known handicapping experts, the stalking-type of beautiful animal is one of the most reliable bets in racing. EFFECTIVE GIG - I like that last contest on January 12th at Golden Gate Fields where he finished third.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 DARK MYSTERY (ML=5/2), #2 BRANNIGAN (ML=5/1),

DARK MYSTERY - Should be difficult for this entrant to beat this group off of that last rating. Not probable to improve enough to run a figure close to today's Equibase class figure, so put him on the questionable challengers list. BRANNIGAN - Tough to keep following this kind of 'bridesmaid' horse. This pony hasn't been near the winner at the finish line of late.

STRAIGHT WAGERS:	Go with #3 WARRENS CANDY MAN on top if we're getting at least 7/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:	Box [3,7]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:	Box [1,3,7] Total Cost: $6
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:	Pass
SUPER HIGH FIVE WAGERS:	Skip

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:39 AM

Jeff Siegel's What You Need to Know - Santa Anita - 2/3/24

February 3, 2024

Jeff Siegel’s 1/ST Glance: Santa Anita – Saturday, February 3, 2024

RACE 1

2-QUEEN OF POIMPEII
Degree of confidence: B-

• Freshened; two tough beats sprinting over the local lawn last fall.
• Likes to settle early and produce a late run, jockey fits her well.
• Shows a good recent series of workouts, has a history of firing fresh.

Others to consider: 1-Issa Court.

RACE 2

7-BARTHOLDY
Degree of confidence: B

• Away for two months, sharp recent workouts, bred to love grass.
• First start with Lasix and without blinkers; picks up Frankie Dettori.
• Likely to settle into a stalking position outside and have every chance.

Others to consider: 2-Island Cruiser; 6-Laugier Night (Ire).

RACE 3

6-DERECHO DANDY
Degree of confidence: C

• Not one to trust but drops to his claiming level and gets Maldonado.
• Failed in each of his last four recent races when leaving as the favorite.
• Projects to be forwardly placed in a race lacking in early speed.

Others to consider: 5-Montana.

RACE 4

7-CLOSING REMARKS
Degree of confidence: B+

• Veteran mare still is going strong at age six; always tries hard.
• First or second in eight of 16 starts over the Santa Anita lawn.
• Will need to work out a trip from her outside post position.

Others to consider: 1-Mouffy; 5-Bellabel.

RACE 5

6-NYSOS
Degree of confidence: A

• Unbeaten and never asked in two runaway wins with big numbers.
• Continues to train like a top class prospect; will be a very short price.
• First time around two turns; pedigree suggests he will enjoy the trip.

Others to consider: none.

RACE 6

3-RUGELACH
Degree of confidence: B+

• Winner of three of her last four starts with consistent numbers.
• Speed to be in front but can stalk if the race flow requires it.
• In the money in nine of 10 career starts, always gives her best.

Others to consider: 10-Miss Lizzy.

RACE 7

4-TOKAMAK
Degree of confidence: C+

• Racing in good form, fifth but was beaten one length in similar affair.
• Reunited with win rider Umberto Rispoli; projects to be a pace stalker.
• Race flow projects to be moderate, will have every chance close home.

Others to consider: 7-Arrest.

RACE 8

5-TIO MAGICO
Degree of confidence: B

• Strong numbers, excellent third behind Easter in San Gabriel Stakes.
• Versatile gelding can be effective on the lead or from off the pace.
• Retains Flavian Prat; lightly raced 6-year-old has room to improve.

Others to consider: 6-Goliad; 3-Balnikhov.

RACE 9

3-THREE WITCHES
Degree of confidence:

• Excellent third in the Breeders’ Cup Filly and Mare Sprint last fall.
• Never off the board in five starts at this extended sprint distance.
• Joins the Michael McCarthy barn; has shown she can win off a layoff.

Others to consider: 6-Hot Peppers.

RACE 10

5-AUSPICIOUS STYLE
Degree of confidence: B-

• Northern California shipper shows numbers that fit at this level.
• Has 10 wins from 22 career starts and always gives a top effort.
• Can win on the lead, from a stalking spot, or from off the pace.

Others to consider: 7-True Quality.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:40 AM

Al Cimaglia: Meadowlands Early Pick 4 Analysis

February 3, 2024 | By Al Cimaglia
The Meadowlands has a 14-race card with the 0.50 Early Pick 4 starting in Race 6. The sequence has a $50,000 guaranteed pool with a 15% takeout, and it will be my focus.

Comments and selections below are based on a fast track.

Race 6 (8:25 PM EST)

3-Rich And Miserable (10-1)-This veteran knows how to win and Jimmy Pants might be able to find some live cover and surprise at a hefty price. Comes off an improved effort and this will be the 3rd start off the bench. Will look for the upswing to continue.
5-Nextroundsonme (2-1)-Gets some class relief which should help, and usual pilot Marcus Miller is back in the bike. This race probably goes through the program chalk.
7-Toccoa Falls (5/2)-Needs a trip but appears to be ready to seal the deal. Caught a shuffle in last and this race may set up more favorably. The 7-year-old is a check cashing machine who can down this field and capture the top prize.

Race 7 (8:50 PM EST)

1-Bet On Butter (4-1)-Raced wide in its M1 debut to cash a 3rd place check. This post draw could help, should be a fair price and Jason Bartlett can work an efficient trip.
4-Montana Storm N (6-1)-Drops to a competitive level and if Steve Smith leaves chances for a picture goes up. This will be the 2nd start off a sick scratch and might be ready for a big try at a square price.
6-Stellar Yankee (3-1)-Steps-up after wiring the last field and stopping the clock in 150.4 with a 26.3 last quarter. Best to respect, finished off the mile in fine fashion all on his own.

Race 8 (9:15 PM EST)

1-Hopnroll Heaven (8-1)-Steps-up after a cozy trip for a DH win. Best to not underestimate, could be in line for the same type of trip. The Engblom trainee has shown the ability to string together good performances.
3-Tito Rocks (6-1)-Missed a start and then raced inside throughout a quick mile. The Cleary barn has been clicking, comes back in sequence and could be better in the 2nd straight at M1.

Race 9 (9:40 PM EST)

3-Revolver N (12-1)-Willing to assume there will be an honest pace and if so that could help this veteran. Doesn't win often but will take a swing at this price that Jonathan Ahle will have in striking range at the top of the lane.
4-Stonebridge Reef (12-1)-Gets Dexter Dunn between the pipes and does good work at M1 (51-9-17-5). Likes to race at the top of the stack and shouldn't have to burn much gas to get there. Fits and should offer a nice price.
9-My Pal Joe (3-1)-Comes off a big try from post 6 to take a picture and now steps-up. Marcus Miller gets the drive and might be overlooked with this post draw. Knows his way to the Big M winner's circle (40-9-6-3) and doubling up is a distinct possibility as most of this field is moving up in class.

0.50 Early Pick 4

3,5,7/1,4,6/1,3/3,4,9
Total Bet=$27

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:40 AM

Race of the Week: $1.5M Saudi Derby | Saturday, Feb. 25

February 22, 2023 | By Jeremy Plonk
The Lead:
The world's eyes will be on the $20 million Saudi Cup on Saturday from the Middle East, but the undercard provides several competitive wagering opportunities as well. One of those stands out in Race 6, the $1.5 million Saudi Derby, where the international pool figures to be heavy on the Japanese and American contingents.

Through the first 7 weeks of 2023, our Xpressbet Race of the Week betting strategies have netted $2,768 in returns for $700 invested -- including 4 winners returning $1242, $430, $520 and another $576 a week ago. Plying our trade in international races like this isn't the norm, but we'll see if a hot hand extends to the desert.

Field Depth:
Graded stakes winners HAVNAMELTDOWN from California and CONTINUAR from Japan will garner the headlines and support on the international parimutuel tote. These kind of races always are difficult to judge on class, though ES UNICO's last company line in Dubai stacks up nicely as well.

Pace:
FROM DUSK and HAVNAMELTDOWN ought to insure a blistering pace over a mile. Several others of these sprint-bred types could push the issue and a finisher has a major chance in this set-up.

Our Eyes:
Here are my horse-by-horse notes.

1-Es Unico: Clear runner-up in the UAE 2000 Guineas trial over 7 furlongs on dirt at Meydan, this southern hemisphere 4-year-old transferred his form nicely from Uruguay. Finished up with sharp interest behind highly regarded Tiger Nation in Dubai, a race capable of winning this. Es Unico is by sire War Secretary, who owns a purely American pedigree by War Front out of outstanding turf/synthetic mare Upperline.

2-Loreley: No match for Es Unico in Meydan’s UAE 2000 Guineas trial a month ago, but post-race scope detected mucus that may have impacted performance. Clasico Argentina winner prior in front-running fashion may be part of the pace. Southern Hemisphere 4-year-old is by fleet US sire Kentuckian and out of a mare by Kentucky Derby winner Fusaichi Pegasus.

3-Almulhem: Late May 20 foal gives away development to Northern Hemisphere types and obviously those from Southern Hemisphere. Runaway maiden mile winner over this track on December 24, besting 18 runners by 3+ lengths. Has a sprint/mile US pedigree, pure Todd Pletcher, by More Than Ready and out of the mare Morrow Cove (by sprinter Yes It’s True).

4-Almurtajiz: No match runner-up to Saudi Derby rival Commissioner King in the Ministry of National Guard Cup over this track Dec. 16 going the same mile trip. Showed promise in November romp over 7 furlongs locally. Win-early pedigree by Good Magic out of American mare Vieja Luna; should handle distance.

5-Atta Alghali: Son of Breeders’ Cup Mile winner Karakontie would appear turf-bred on top, but dam was solid dirt performer in Chicago. Third-place finisher over this track Jan. 27 in the Saudi Derby qualifier. He had to almost stop cold on the far turn and re-rallied nicely before losing steam late. Could be a late factor with a cleaner trip.

6-Baalb: Deeper foundation than most of the local Saudi sophomores, running 6 times back to early September and winning 2 of 3 over the track in Riyadh. Maternal grandson of star US sprinter Classy Mirage is by Irish sprint/mile sharpie Beldardo. Comes off a disappointing race, but intrigues some.

7-Commissioner King: Kentucky-bred son of Pimlico Special winner and Belmont Stakes runner-up Commissioner, he exits a 4-length win Dec. 16 in the local Ministry of National Guard Cup. Dam was a solid stakes sprinter in Maryland. Winner of 2 of 3 lifetime ranks among the top local hopes.

8-Continuar: Cattleya Stakes winner in Japan’s Road to the Kentucky Derby qualifiers in November, he’s a son of top US sprinter Drefong. Note last year’s Saudi Derby runner-up also was a son of Drefong via Japan. Connections seek path from Saudi Arabia to Dubai to Louisville if all goes to plan. Twice has run 1-1/8 miles, so distance will not be an issue at a mile for this colt from the female family of legendary Japanese mare Almond Eye. Was a bit one-paced last out in the Cattleya victory.

9-Derma Sotogake: Hard-fought dirt winner in Japan’s Zen Nippon Nisai Yushun last time out, he’ll be one of that nation’s multiple major reps in the Saudi Derby. Japan has won this race 2 of its 3 years in existence and finished 2-3 in last year’s event. Derma Sotogake defeated Saudi Derby rival Continuar in a matchup last year, and this is a son of Mind Your Biscuits, the US-based sprinter who had much success in Dubai. He carries the Sunday Silence bloodlines on the damside for class and stamina.

10-Ecoro Ares: Outsider among the Japanese contingent, ninth beaten 14 lengths most recently in a turf sprint. Son of US sprinter Unified, who did stretch out to win the 9F Peter Pan around 1 turn. Dam won 3 routes in US on dirt and turf.

11-From Dusk: $900,000 Ocala 2-Year-Old purchase by hot young sire Bolt d’Oro (and out of a half-sister to $1.6M turfer Get Stormy) has been wildly inconsistent in Japan to date. He’s performed better shorter in distance and has exceptional early foot – owing to his 9-4/5 drill at OBS. From Dusk should be part of the pace.

12-Havnameltdown: Trainer Bob Baffert won this race last year wire-to-wire with Pinehurst, who ran in many of the same races as this colt – specifically, the Del Mar Futurity at 2 and San Vicente at 3. His only career loss in 5 starts came when barnmate Cave Rock wired the Del Mar Futurity. Havnameltdown was gifted the lead in the San Vicente and cruised up top; that scenario will be more difficult to attain in the Saudi Derby. Not only did his American barnmate win this race last year, but also note Cowan represented the US well in 2021 when runner-up.

13-My Map: Saudi Arabia’s leading contender is perfect in 4 starts and notched the local prep victory in the Saudi Derby qualifier. By Breeders’ Cup Dirt Mile winner Liam’s Map, he sat patiently inside last out, split horses professionally and had a nice turn of foot to open up before idling a bit to the wire. With a hot pace expected, he’s a danger late as the locals look for their first win in this race.

Most Certain Exotics Contender:
ES UNICO really caught my eye in Dubai and the race shape looks favorable for his style. The Southern Hemisphere 4YOs always perk my attention in these spring international races with their developmental edge.

Best Longshot Exotics Contender:
ATTA ALGHALI can improve off a troubled trip and gets a good set-up.

Sending it in ($100 bankroll):
$70 win ES UNICO. $5 exacta key-box ES UNICO with MY MAP, HAVNAMELTDOWN, ATTA ALGHALI ($30).

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:41 AM

Brian W. Spencer's Daily Picks

Fair Grounds - Race #6

#4 Miss Shipman	She'll go third off the break while getting back to a surface on which she was stakes placed as a 2-year-old, and she might find a really nice spying trip today. Overlooked?
#5 Speedy Traveler	Wouldn't argue too much with anyone landing here unless the price gets too short, which is a real possibility after she turned in the sharp debut score at 3/5 on the board. Dangerous pace in a race without a ton of serious early burn.
#2 Wupkar	She might be in the right spot to stick around for a piece of this if she doesn't battle too hard with Speedy Traveler early, and she has been pretty reliable when outside of stakes company. In the mix.
Race Summary	Miss Shipman is capable of something better than she showed last time out, and today would be the right day for her to show it while returning to Fair Grounds, where she was pretty sharp last season.

Fair Grounds - Race #7

#8 Cash Fever	Seemingly not a ton of super serious early pace lined up here, so this one might get another dreamy trip right up on the splits again today. Lots to like, but I wouldn't be shocked to see him take a little too much cash.
#4 Son of a Birch	Both his local tries have been competitive, and he was just second best behind a super live winner last out. He's supposed to be one of the ones again today.
#9 Battle Scars	He could be tighter in this third start of the meet, and he was finishing with enthusiasm against some of these last time out. Mild concern that he wants a hotter pace than he's going to get.
Race Summary	Check out #2 Bench ahead of this one -- the two running lines on the page would make him really interesting with these, but he's a 6-year-old making his third career start and first start in over two years today. No clue.

Fair Grounds - Race #8

#6 Charriere	She should be right there today if she can just hold form from the last couple tries, and she caught a very tough winner last out who might still be heading places. Think she's supposed to win this.
#3 Rastani	She's coming out of the same race as the top choice, but she definitely didn't bring her best that day, and the price will probably get a bit more appealing off the dud. Expecting better.
#1 Happy Am I	She's got enough pace to be prominent from the inside, but the runner just outside of her might be prompting her the whole way. Dangerous if she can shake free.
Race Summary	Charriere should be in a great spying spot, and I liked her effort from that last one when chasing Miss Arlington. #7 Rose Palace should be in the conversation on deep tickets, but I'll lean to the top choice.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:41 AM

Frank Carulli's Daily Picks

Laurel Park - Race #1

#2 BABY SOX (20-1)	Can be forward presence a long way and spring an upset victory.
#8 FIVECOMMATWO (2-1)	Three seconds in last six dirt sprints, all for a higher price.
#4 CATCH THE KITTEN (4-1)	Dueled with 2-1 winner and held second at 1M, broke maiden for $20k.
Race Summary	BABY SOX has speed and can use it well for her new connections at a price too good to pass up. She lost all chance at the break last out but finished with good energy to get beat 4-1/4 lengths by a next-out repeat winner. Bet to win and place.

Laurel Park - Race #4

#4 ROYAL SPY (4-1)	Runs well fresh, runs for Ortiz, runs for cheapest claiming price yet.
#7 UNLEVERAGED (6-1)	Decent try on transition to main track, value remains.
#6 CLASS ACTOR (9-5)	Two sharp wins as gelding to cap 89k season as 3yo, drops below claim level.
Race Summary	ROYAL SPY hasn’t raced since he was claimed for $8,000 November 11. But he had two wins and a second with a month-plus between starts last year and enters a high-percentage new acquisition barn. Bet to win and place.

Laurel Park - Race #6

#8 ICE COLD FROSTY (8-1)	Right set-up, right price in repeat attempt for new barn.
#6 AUSTIN FROM BOSTON (9-5)	Romped twice when last seen in the fall, worked bullet for return.
#7 SMOOTH RICO (4-1)	Good speed, led at stretch call in last pair but settled for minor awards.
Race Summary	ICE COLD FROSTY exited some ‘key’ races and broke through with a maiden-breaking rally at 6F. He was claimed out of that race two months ago, worked in :48-3/5 for his return and gets plenty of pace flow to repeat. Bet to win and place and play a 6-7-8 exacta box.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:42 AM

Jon White: Kentucky Derby Top 10 Newcomers, Plus Rebel Picks

February 22, 2023 | By Jon White
While Arabian Knight and Forte remain No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, my Kentucky Derby Top 10 this week has two newcomers.

Sparkling recent maiden winner Skinner enters the Top 10 this week at No. 8. Risen Star Stakes winner Angel of Empire debuts at No. 10.

Skinner was credited with a 95 Beyer Speed Figure for his maiden graduation in a mile contest. Angel of Empire received a preliminary Beyer of 87 for his triumph in the 1 1/8-mile Risen Star, a figure that subsequently was boosted a bit to 89.

One of the reasons that I have Skinner ranked a couple of notches above Angel of Empire on the Top 10 is Skinner’s higher 95 Beyer in a two-turn race vis-a-vis Angel of Empire’s 89 in a two-turn contest.

Not only was Skinner’s performance commendable quantitatively with a 95 Beyer Speed Figure, I came away impressed visually in terms of the gusto Skinner exhibited in the lane to win going away by a widening 3 1/4 lengths.

I’ve had my eye on Skinner ever since he kicked off his racing career at Del Mar last summer on July 24 in a five-furlong maiden special weight race. Last early in the field of 10, he finished fifth. Havnameltdown, backed down to 6-5 favoritism for Hall of Fame trainer Bob Baffert, won in front-running fashion by 2 1/4 lengths.

Keep in mind that was only a five-furlong sprint. Also keep in mind that Skinner was facing a quality sprinter in Havnameltdown.

Since that July 24 maiden race at Del Mar, Havnameltdown has won three of four starts, all in graded stakes races sprinting. His only defeat came when he finished second to Cave Rock in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity at seven furlongs.

Skinner never threatened in his debut, but he did come home with good energy as a 36-1 longshot. After being 13 lengths behind on the backstretch, he found himself seven lengths behind Havnameltdown at the finish.

But the main reason Skinner made my horses-to-watch list is what he did AFTER the race was over. I noted that he “galloped out past the winner after the finish.”

Because that race happened so long ago, I watched the video of it again just to make sure that I wasn’t smoking my socks as to what Skinner did after the finish. Sure enough, he ran right by Havnameltdown on the clubhouse turn while no one else was close to the pair.

Owned by Lee and Susan Searing’s C R K Stable and trained by John Shirreffs, Skinner followed his debut by running in the Grade I Del Mar Futurity at seven furlongs as a maiden. For the Searings and Shirreffs to think enough of the Kentucky-bred Curlin colt to run him in that race when he was a maiden says a lot. These are not pie-in-the-sky people.

Skinner managed to finish third at 13-1 to Cave Rock and Havnameltdown in the Del Mar Futurity. After that, Skinner again competed at the Grade I level as a maiden. But this time he finished far back in sixth in Santa Anita’s American Pharoah Stakes on Oct. 8. Skinner would not race again until his 2023 debut on Feb. 12.

Between Skinner’s Oct. 8 and Feb. 12 races, he appears to have come a long way under Shirreffs’ skillful horsemanship.

“We spent a lot of time taking him to the gate, standing him, doing a lot of little things just to build his confidence,” Shirreffs told Daily Racing Form’s Brad Free.

The time and effort paid off on Feb. 12.

“Skinner broke well, relaxed in sixth position, took dirt, rallied outside and powered home,” Free wrote.

Shirreffs said that Skinner “did everything right” that day.

Santa Anita’s Grade II San Felipe Stakes at 1 1/16 miles on March 4 is under consideration for Skinner.

“It could be next for him, but it comes up pretty quick,” Shirreffs was quoted as saying in Santa Anita’s stable notes Monday (Feb. 20). “We’ll see.”

In 2020, Shirreffs sent out C R K Stable’s Honor A.P. to finish second behind Authentic in the San Felipe. Honor A.P. then won the Grade I Santa Anita Derby by 2 3/4 lengths, with Authentic having to settle for second. Authentic went on to win the Grade I Haskell Invitational, Grade I Kentucky Derby and Grade I Breeders’ Cup Classic en route to being voted 2020 Horse of the Year. Honor A.P. finished fourth in the Kentucky Derby.

The Shirreffs-trained Giacomo ran second to Consolidator in the 2005 San Felipe. After that, Giacomo finished fourth to Buzzards Bay, General John and Wilco in the Santa Anita Derby. Giacomo then won the Kentucky Derby in a 50-1 upset for owners Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Moss.

Another reason I have Skinner at No. 8 on this week’s Top 10 is I will not be surprised that, when all is said and done, he turns out to be at least as good as Giacomo.

Shirreffs does have one San Felipe victory to his credit. He won it with Stan Fulton’s A.P. Warrior in 2006. A.P. Warrior would go on to finish third in the Santa Anita Derby and 18th in the Kentucky Derby.

Geaux Rocket Ride is No. 6 on my Kentucky Derby Top 10. It’s all systems go at this time for him to run in the San Felipe, according to Hall of Fame trainer Richard Mandella. The Kentucky-bred Candy Ride colt won a six-furlong maiden special weight race by 5 3/4 lengths at Santa Anita when unveiled on Jan. 29.

It should be noted that Geaux Rocket Ride’s debut victory looks even better now after runner-up Sonoran came back to win a 6 1/2-furlong maiden special weight race by 7 1/4 lengths at Santa Anita on Monday (Feb. 20) for Baffert.

Meanwhile, Brad Cox trains Angel of Empire and about a hundred other talented 3-year-old colts, or so it seems.

Even though Angel of Empire’s 89 Beyer in his Risen Star win won’t knock your socks off, I gave him the nod over Verifying and Practical Move for the No. 10 spot on my Top 10 this week for a couple of reasons.

First, by virtue of Angel of Empire earning 50 qualifying points in the Risen Star, he’s virtually assured of a spot in the Kentucky Derby starting gate on May 6. And if you’re in it, you have a chance to win it, as evidenced by Rich Strike’s shocking 80-1 victory last year.

Second, since it seems like the longer a race is the better it is for Angel of Empire, it’s not hard for me to picture him hitting the board in the 1 1/4-mile Run for the Roses. Hence, I believe he deserves to be included on the Top 10.

My Kentucky Derby Top 10 for this week is below:

1. Arabian Knight
2. Forte
3. Tapit Trice
4. Cave Rock
5. Instant Coffee
6. Geaux Rocket Ride
7. Hejazi
8. Skinner
9. Reincarnate
10. Angel of Empire

Bubbling Under My Top 10 (in alphabetical order):

Blazing Sevens, Carmel Road, Damon’s Mound, Denington, Disarm, Eyeing Clover, Faustin, General Jim, Gun Pilot, Hard to Figure, Hit Show, Kingsbarns, Litigate, National Treasure, Please Be Nice, Practical Move, Recruiter, Red Route One, Rocket Can, Sun Thunder, Tall Boy, Two Eagles River, Two Phil’s, Worcester and Verifying.

REBEL STAKES SELECTIONS

Eleven are entered in the lucrative 1 1/16-mile Rebel Stakes, which will be contested at Oaklawn Park this Saturday (Feb. 25). The Grade II affair has a purse of $1 million up for grabs.

The two I like the most are Reincarnate and Verifying. Horses they recently have defeated (Mr. Fitz, Newgate, Gun Pilot and Two Eagles River) were next-out winners.

Tim Yakteen, instead of Baffert, is now listed as the trainer of Reincarnate. This makes the Kentucky-bred Good Magic colt eligible to earn Kentucky Derby points.

Horses trained by Baffert currently are ineligible to earn any qualifying points toward the 2023 Kentucky Derby. Baffert has been banned from participation in races at Churchill Downs Inc. tracks, including the Kentucky Derby, through early July. The ban stems from the 2021 Kentucky Derby in which the Baffert-trained Medina Spirit finished first but tested positive for the presence of betamethasone, a medication that is legal to use, but not on race day.

A gem of consistency, Reincarnate has finished first or second in all five career starts.

Reincarnate goes into the Rebel off back-to-back victories. He won a one-mile maiden special weight race at Del Mar on Nov. 25, then took Santa Anita’s Grade III Sham Stakes at the same distance on Jan. 8.

Mr Fisk finished second to Reincarnate in the Nov. 25 race, then won his next start.

Newgate ran second to Reincarnate in the Sham, then was victorious in Santa Anita’s Grade III Robert B. Lewis Stakes.

I expect Reincarnate to show early speed in the Rebel for Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez. It’s the same running style the colt displayed in both of his wins.

Reincarnate’s name is “based on pedigree, looks and a famous gray that captured the imagination of one Gavin Murphy,” the DRF’s Brad Free wrote this week. “Murphy manages SF Racing, co-owner of Reincarnate. Murphy became a fan of Holy Bull in 1994, when he won four Grade I’s. The second dame of Reincarnate is by Holy Bull.”

Holy Bull was the 1994 Horse of the Year as a 3-year-old.

Reincarnate “looks just like Holy Bull,” Ryan said.

The name Reincarnate was Murphy’s idea, as in “Holy Bull reincarnated,” Free wrote.

A $775,000 auction purchase, Reincarnate is a Kentucky-bred son of Good Magic. Good Magic won the 2017 Breeders’ Cup Juvenile as a maiden and was voted an Eclipse Award as champion 2-year-old male.

Coincidentally, Verifying likewise was a $775,000 auction purchase.

In Verifying’s first 2023 start, he bounded home to a 5 1/4-length victory going one mile in a first-level allowance/optional claiming race at Oaklawn Park on Jan. 14. Gun Pilot finished second, while Two Eagles River came in third. Gun Pilot won his next start, as did Two Eagles River. Gun Pilot will be one of Verifying’s opponents in the Rebel.

Breaking from the rail with Florent Geroux in the saddle, Verifying should be forwardly placed early and get a good trip in the Rebel. Cox trains Verifying, a son of undefeated 2018 Triple Crown winner Justify. Verifying is a half-brother to Midnight Bisou, an earner of $7,471,520 and an Eclipse Award recipient as champion older dirt female of 2019.

Cox also will be represented in the Rebel by Giant Mischief, who certainly warrants contender status.

Giant Mischief won his first two races, one at Horseshoe Indianapolis and the other at Keeneland. The Kentucky-bred Into Mischief colt then ran second despite a poor start as a 4-5 favorite in Remington Park’s Springboard Mile on Dec. 17.

It certainly helps Giant Mischief’s chances in the Rebel that multiple Eclipse Award-winning jockey Irad Ortiz Jr. pilots him for the first time. Ortiz has been red-hot. He won four races last Saturday (Feb. 18) at Gulfstream Park, then three more there the next day.

Another Rebel entrant worthy of serious consideration is Red Route One. The Kentucky-bred Gun Runner colt rallied to finish second, 5 1/2 lengths behind Arabian Knight (No. 1 on my Top 10), in Oaklawn’s Grade III Southwest Stakes at 1 1/16 miles on a sloppy track Jan. 28.

My selections for the Rebel Stakes are below:

1. Reincarnate
2. Verifying
3. Giant Mischief
4. Red Route One

ASMUSSEN REGISTERS WIN NO. 10,000

Hall of Famer Steve Asmussen won only 63 races as a jockey. He’s done a whole lot better as a trainer.

Asmussen, who ranks as North America’s all-time leader in wins by a trainer, made more history on Monday (Feb. 20). The 57-year-old native of South Dakota became the first North American trainer to win 10,000 Thoroughbred races when Bet He’s Ready posted a 3 3/4-length victory as an even-money favorite in the fifth race at Oaklawn.

On Aug. 7, 2021, when Stellar Tap got the job done in a maiden special weight race at Saratoga, Asmussen notched his 9,446th victory to take over the top spot in most wins by a North American trainer from the late Dale Baird.

Asmussen won his first race as a Thoroughbred conditioner with Victory’s Halo at Ruidoso Downs on July 19, 1986.

A two-time Eclipse Award winner as outstanding trainer in 2008 and 2009, Asmussen has conditioned such champions as Curlin (Horse of the Year in 2007 and 2008), Rachel Alexandra (Horse of the Year in 2009) and Gun Runner (Horse of the Year in 2017).

Below is a list of the Top 10 all-time leading Thoroughbred trainers in wins through Feb. 21, according to Equibase:

Rank Wins Trainer

1. 10,000 Steve Asmussen*
2. 9,445 Dale Baird
3. 7,759 Jerry Hollendorfer*
4. 6,523 Jack Van Berg
5. 6,508 King Leatherbury
6. 6,306 Scott Lake
7. 5,502 Todd Pletcher*
8. 5,286 Bill Mott*
9. 4,892 D. Wayne Lukas*
10. 4,745 Scott Hazelton

*active

LINDA MEENTS PASSES AWAY

I join many who were saddened to learn the news that Linda Meents passed away on Feb. 14 at her home in Arizona following a lengthy illness at the age of 75. She was the press box racing wire operator for all of the tracks in the Los Angeles area at one time or another for many years before her retirement.

“She was a really, really good person,” Mike Willman, Santa Anita’s publicity director, said Sunday (Feb. 19) on his radio program Thoroughbred Los Angeles.

Willman noted that after he took over as publicity director at the Great Race Place, “Linda was kinda my rudder.”

In the many years I worked in television at Santa Anita and on HRTV with Kurt Hoover, she often joined us and others in playing a group pick six.

“She was a good winner and a good loser” as a participant in those pick six tickets, said handicapper Bob Mieszerski, whose selections, odds and comments appear in various Southern California newspapers, such as the Los Angeles Daily News, Pasadena Star-News and San Gabriel Valley Tribune. “She never complained. Everybody liked her.”

TOP 10 IN THIS WEEK’S NTRA TOP THOROUGHBRED POLL

Rank Points Horse (First-Place Votes)

1. 303 Art Collector (19)
2. 258 Taiba (9)
3. 180 Country Grammer (3)
4. 163 Defunded
5. 130 Cody’s Wish
6. 121 Atone
7. 115 Nest
8. 80 Elite Power
9. 64 Clairiere
10. 35 Goodnight Olive
10. 35 Gunite
10. 35 Queen Goddess

TOP 10 IN THIS WEEK’S NTRA TOP THREE-YEAR-OLD POLL

Rank Points Horse (First-Place Votes)

1. 307 Forte (18)
2. 293 Arabian Knight (13)
3. 229 Instant Coffee
3. 163 Cave Rock
5. 111 Angel of Empire
6. 109 Rocket Can
7. 100 Hit Show
7. 77 Reincarnate
9. 68 Blazing Sevens
10. 61 Litigate

End

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:47 AM

Hunter Price

Feb 03 '24, 10:00 AM in 2h
Soccer | Barnsley vs Bolton Wanderers

Play on: Barnsley +299 at YouWager

1* Free Pick on Barnsley

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 02-03-2024, 06:47 AM

Stephen Nover

Feb 03 '24, 12:00 PM in 4h
NCAA-B | Connecticut vs St. John's

Play on: Connecticut -3 -110 at circa

Despite losing their two best players from last season, Adama Sanogo and Jordan Hawkins, defending champion UConn is ranked No. 1 in the nation. The Huskies have won nine in a row and rate a much bigger edge against St. John's than this point spread indicates. St. John's is just 5-5 in Big East Conference action. I have no doubt the Red Storm will be highly motivated for this home matchup, but they are not in the class of UConn especially given their current form. St. John's is 1-4 in its last five games. The Red Storm just lost, 88-77, to Xavier this past Wednesday. UConn crushed Xavier, 99-56, this past Sunday. The Huskies are ranked No. 3 in the KenPom rankings. St. John's is rated 36th in those rankings. Center Joel Soriano is St. John's best player. He leads the Red Storm in scoring at 16.6 points a game and rebounding. He's St. John's only player who averages more than 14 points a game. UConn is a much deeper team. Not only do the Huskies have a top all-around guard in senior Tristen Newton, but they can match up against Soriano with Donovan Clingan, a 7-foot-2, 280-pound center.