Following four vet scratches, Monday’s first race at Churchill Downs goes with two horses, meaning it is a match race for $5,000 claimers. The horses left to run are the two highest prices on the morning line, Stereo In Motion and Theodore’s Cash. Aside from the rarity of a match race, this is a new low.
One of the prime beneficiaries of the absence of top West Coast rider Rafael Bejarano is Joe Talamo. There’s no doubt the youngster has talent and is tied into some top barns, but with Joel Rosario having shipped east and Bejarano sidelined by injury, the colony is ripe for the plucking, and Talamo appears best suited to take advantage.
The day kicks off with a 4 1/2-furlong dash for 2-year-old fillies, and there are a couple promising prospects.
Bird Maker, second in the Grade 2 Golden Rod last year, returned to form with a class drop into a first-level allowance. Although expected to win, going off at even-money against just four rivals, she nevertheless turned in an eye-opening victory, scoring by 11 1/4 lengths under Julien Leparoux.
DRF Plus handicapping analysis for Santa Anita on Monday, May 26.
DRF Plus handicapping analysis for Churchill Downs on Monday, May 26.
DRF Plus handicapping analysis for Belmont Park on Monday, May 26.
DRF Plus closer looks for Santa Anita on Monday, May 26.
DRF Plus closer looks for Churchill Downs on Monday, May 26.
DRF Plus closer looks for Belmont Park on Monday, May 26.
