Brad Free's Santa Anita Horses to Watch from Jan. 9-15, 2024

BIG GAIN
Trainer: John Sadler
Last race: Jan. 12, 5th
Finish: 2nd by 2 3/4
Beyer: 75
Cal-bred firster ran well in restricted maiden race won by odds-on stablemate. Rail trip, kept to task, finished clear of third. Can handle state-bred maidens next out.

RUNNING TIGER
Trainer: Jorge Periban
Last race: Jan. 12, 6th
Finish: 1st by 1 1/2
Beyer: 63
Second-time starter improved 20 Beyer points in convincing maiden-claiming Cal-bred win. Forwardly placed, won clear, galloped out far in front. Follow vs. winners.

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OOBUBBAKAKAYO
Trainer: Ryan Hanson
Last race: Jan. 13, 1st
Finish: 3rd by 1 1/2
Beyer: 56
First-time starter in Cal-bred maiden turf sprint lacked speed from rail, raced midpack, angled outside for stretch, finished evenly in promising debut. Might want two turns.

SUSHI STICKS
Trainer: Michael McCarthy
Last race: Jan. 13, 5th
Finish: 3rd by 2 3/4
Beyer: 64
Late-runner compromised by slow pace in Cal Cup Oaks on turf. Trailed early, angled out for drive, kicked, but race dominated by speed. ’Sticks needs faster pace to run at.

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