Bernier: How I'll play Santa Anita on Saturday, Feb. 3

A pick-three sequence at Santa Anita on Saturday looks as if it could pay well. I can understand if anyone would rather take a shot at the late pick four, but considering the race leading into the finale, I’m more inclined to press my opinions and hope for the best. Below is my pick-three play consisting of races 6-8.

RACE 6
ROOSEVELT (6) was wide throughout in his most recent start against nonwinners of two lifetime on Jan. 7, and he figures to work out a better trip today. He’s displayed some tactical speed in the past and should put himself in an advantageous position early; if he’s able to secure a good spot, there’s no reason to believe that he shouldn’t be a threat at a square price.

RACE 7 – SAN MARCOS
The field for the San Marcos is a salty one, but ITSINTHEPOST (5) is clearly the horse to beat. His most recent run in the San Gabriel was exceptional, especially because he was coming off a layoff and running at a distance that may be shorter than ideal for him; the stretch-out to 10 furlongs should work wonders, and the pace scenario should benefit him. Itsinthepost is going to be tough if he delivers his “A” effort.

RACE 8 – SAN PASQUAL
The San Pasqual is wide-open, and a case can be made for nearly half the field. PAVEL (1) enters on the heels of a decent effort in the Grade 1 Malibu on opening day going shorter, and he ran on the worst part of the track throughout; stretching out to a route of ground should work to his advantage, and he figures to work out a decent trip throughout. ACCELERATE (3) may be 0 for 8 at Santa Anita, but his Beyer Speed Figures stack up favorably against this group, and he projects to work out a great trip. IRISH FREEDOM (7) may be better than he’s shown recently, and getting back to a route should be to his benefit; he reminds me of a younger version of Hoppertunity, as he’s shown to be a bit of a grinder. TOP OF THE GAME (9) has races in his past performances that make him more than capable of winning this race; draw a line through his two most recent starts, and you’re left with an impressive victory at Santa Anita.