D'Esprit gets class relief at Louisiana Downs

D'Esprit, a close fourth against steeper last time, drops in class for the featured ninth race Thursday at Louisiana Downs. The 7 1/2-furlong turf allowance has a claiming option of $16,000. The chief threat to D'Esprit appears to be Savory.

* Jockey Eddie Martin Jr., who has not ridden since sustaining a hairline fracture to his collarbone in September at Arlington Park, has been named to ride Its My Pleasure in the third race Thursday night at Lone Star.

* Jockey Jamie Theriot is suspended through Sunday as a result of My Misty Princess's disqualification in the $100,000 Yellow Rose Oct. 3 at Lone Star. The filly veered in and bumped another rival in the stretch. She was placed fourth, while runner-up Aud was named the winner.