Free: Del Mar Horses to Watch

LAKWANI
Trainer: Ron McAnally
Last race: Oct. 30, 6th
Finish: 4th by 2 1/2
Beyer: 52

A 2-year-old first-time starter, this filly was bet to 3-1 favoritism, but the pace came up too fast. She pressed, made the lead in the lane, and was swallowed in a race dominated by closers. She is sure to improve with racing and is bred to run long.

MIDNIGHT HAWK
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Last race: Oct. 31, 6th
Finish: 11th by 13 1/4
Beyer: 69

Hammered to favoritism in his comeback, this former Derby prospect had a nightmare trip – off slow, in traffic, checked, wide, and retreated. He had worked very well into his return. This comeback was inconclusive. He is worth another chance.

DORTMUND
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Last race: Nov. 2, 5th
Finish: 1st by 4 1/4
Beyer: 81

This massive 2-year-old colt by Big Brown made a smashing debut. He was stuck behind horses early, found a seam, pressed three wide, and ran away late. This was a serious debut by a very promising colt.

META MU
Trainer: Kristin Mulhall
Last race: Nov. 2, 6th
Finish: 2nd by 1 1/4
Beyer: 74

Making her first start in five months, this 2-year-old maiden filly rallied wide and finished well in a race won by a rail-skimming frontrunner. Meta Mu finished more than four lengths clear of third and appears to be sitting on a maiden win next out.

ALFA BIRD
Trainer: Victor Garcia
Last race: Nov. 2, 10th
Finish: 2nd by a head
Beyer: 86

After three straight runner-up finishes, this maiden 3-year-old makes the list again. He has speed, handles dirt or synthetic, and figures as a favorite next time in a special-weight sprint.