Bernier: How I'll play Gulfstream for Sunday, March 24

Below are a few horses at a variety of prices to consider Sunday at Gulfstream Park.

RACE 3
He may not be a superstar, but BAD BOY E. J. (8) has run some decent races at this maiden $20,000 claiming level. The late kick he possesses is strong for a group like this, and there appears to be enough pace signed on to accentuate his finish. At 6-1 on the morning line, Bad Boy E. J. is worth considering a win wager on, and, at the very least, underneath in exotics.

RACE 5
PILOTING (3) has been popular at the claim box over the past few months, and today he gets back to his preferred surface for trainer Shamir Maragh. All six of Piloting’s lifetime wins have come on the main track, and Irad Ortiz Jr. picks up the mount for his return to the dirt. It’s reasonable to question his effectiveness at 8 1/2 furlongs (5-0-1-2 career record), but the lack of speed signed on should allow Irad to work out a nice, stalking trip aboard Piloting.

RACE 10
There doesn’t appear to be much speed entered in Sunday’s 10th, and that could work to the advantage of SPECIAL COUNSEL (6). Special Counsel has three lifetime victories, and all have come in gate-to-wire fashion. If he’s unable to procure the lead, he may be in a bit of trouble (from a win perspective). TimeformUS believes he’ll be sitting second chasing a slow pace, so it’s not inconceivable that Nik Juarez could get aggressive out of the gate and try to take control of the race early, out-footing a horse like LUZ ESTRELLA (2).

RACE 12
Drawing the far-outside post, it would be understandable if BLACK PEPPER (9) took up a lovely stalking position rounding the far turn before attempting to take over. Personally, I’d much prefer Black Pepper to be sent hard the minute the gates break, attempt to clear the field and make someone else go and run him down. Speed is always an asset in dirt racing; if you’ve got it, use it.