Brad Free's Horses to Watch

AIR OF ROYALTY
Trainer: Mark Glatt
Last race: Jan. 8, 7th
Finish: 3rd by 1/2
Beyer: 78
This front-runner/presser was compromised by hot fractions in this N2X turf sprint. She got the best of her pace foe, and then was swallowed late. Next time in a similar spot she can be gone. Connections may consider Sunshine Millions F&M Turf Sprint Jan. 24.

MISS BLISS
Trainer: Mike Puype
Last race: Jan. 9, 5th
Finish: 6th by 6 3/4
Beyer: 56
A first-time starter bet to favoritism in a maiden turf sprint, she did not have a fair chance. She broke slowly, raced in traffic, finished evenly. It was a better-than-looked debut. Maidens from this stable usually improve with racing.

WILD AT HEART
Trainer: Richard Mandella
Last race: Jan. 10, 2nd
Finish: 2nd by 2
Beyer: 80
This 3-year-old filly by Indian Charlie ran super in her debut, but hooked a good filly with an experience edge.She finished more than nine lengths clear of third, earned a strong number, and should be double tough next out at low odds.

ROCK SHANDY
Trainer: Peter Miller
Last race: Jan. 10, 6th
Finish: 2nd by 4 1/4
Beyer: 89
This improving 3-year-old stamped himself as a sleeper Derby candidate with a good try first-time dirt in the Grade 3 Sham. He raced inside and behind, seemed uncomfortable much of the trip, but kept to his task to finish well clear of third. Dirt is his deal.

BATTLE OF EVERMORE
Trainer: John Sadler
Last race: Jan. 10, 7th
Finish: 3rd by 1 3/4
Beyer: 74
This five-start maiden has been a money burner, but he is due for luck. Squeezed and away poorly in this, his first on dirt, he moved into contention, finished willingly, and stamped himself as a maiden winner soon. He ran well on dirt, but might prefer turf.