DRF's Horse Racing Playbook for Friday, April 4, 2025
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Daily Racing Form has served as the most trusted source of news and information about the sport since 1894, and moving forward we have decided to provide a free daily playbook – something that both hardcore horseplayers and casual observers can reference to get informed of each day’s action.
12:44 LRL 2nd MY MAMBA (#5, 7-2) won at this level in early February and returned later in the month with an absolute dud; Magee probably got more than he bargained for after claiming him that day, but Rodriguez signing on to ride provides some assurance that the gelding can bounce back; in the past year, Magee is 12-for-47 with horses running off the claim at Laurel (26%, $2.37 ROI). – Patrick Moquin | Get PPs for this race
1:42 AQU 2nd GO IRISH (#1, 15-1) steadied a bit early before chasing gamely in his career debut behind a horse that has turned out to be pretty good in Big City (two additional wins since, 96 Beyer top); looked good winning his next start despite a Beyer dip, then failed to stretch out effectively before being laid up; has to be ready off the long layoff but he flashed some talent last year, and he will be a fair price. – Mike Beer | Get PPs for this race
3:25 OP 4th EZ TREE ATES (#6, 5-1) is well-versed at the mile trip. – Mary Rampellini | Get PPs for this race
3:30 GP 6th FOCUSYN (#5, 7-2) is the only true closer in this race. Everyone else has some speed and perhaps that sharpens the pace. Team Joseph is 29% with new runners. Works are fine and this horse gets in light with the apprentice up. – Scott Ehlers | Get PPs for this race
3:36 LRL 7th NAVANI (#2, 9-2) returned from a long layoff last month and made a determined charge to surprise an allowance field at Penn National; she has a little form on turf, but she has been consistent on both surfaces and there should be some pace out in front for her; distance is the key here, as she seems to be the most comfortable at a mile among the contenders. – Patrick Moquin | Get PPs for this race
5:06 GP 9th ALINAO FOREVER (#7, 5-1) has improved or tied his Beyer in every start. He beat half the field home in his only turf start. He cuts back a full furlong and puts three races together. Class drop looks like the money run. – Scott Ehlers | Get PPs for this race
5:32 OP 8th There are a host of capable options in a competitive spot. AIN'T THAT A KICK (#2, 20-1) again figures to be making his case through the lane. – Mary Rampellini | Get PPs for this race