Free: Santa Anita horses to watch for week of Feb. 22, 2021
IN VRONSKY STYLE
Trainer: Phil D’Amato
Last race: Feb. 19, race 3
Finish: 2nd by 2 1/4
Beyer: 69
Solid debut by 4-year-old in Cal-bred maiden turf sprint. Broke from rail, sat midpack, made early move to lead in lane, and was gobbled up late by favorite. Will be tough vs. similar, short or long.
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HONEY JAR
Trainer: Michael McCarthy
Last race: Feb. 20, race 3
Finish: 2nd by 1 1/4
Beyer: 71
Debut 3-year-old filly from barn that rarely wins with first-timers, daughter of Kantharos ran well. Popped gate, sped to lead, fought back, finished four lengths clear. Next time.
MUCHO UNUSUAL
Trainer: Tim Yakteen
Last race: Feb. 20, race 7
Finish: 2nd by 1
Beyer: 97
Consistent mare ran well in G2 turf mile, a distance shorter than prefers. Saved ground, angled out, even finish. Wants mile and quarter and will get it in G3 Santa Ana on March 27.
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PAYNTER’S LOVE
Trainer: David Hofmans
Last race: Feb. 20, race 8
Finish: 5th by 11 1/2
Beyer: 44
Debut filly in maiden-claiming route was unprepared for start, broke last, trailed field, finished well and galloped out in front into the clubhouse turn. Needs a clean takeoff.
COMMANDING CHIEF
Trainer: John Sadler
Last race: Feb. 21, race 1
Finish: 4th by 2
Beyer: 70
Twelve-start maiden promises more than delivers, but had no chance in maiden-50 turf route. Blocked on rail final quarter-mile, and had impossible trip. Can make amends next out.
BEYOND BRILLIANT
Trainer: John Shirreffs
Last race: Feb. 21, race 5
Finish: 2nd by 1 1/2
Beyer: 77
This 3-year-old debut colt by Twirling Candy ran well in maiden turf sprint. Saved ground midpack, waited for room, had a steady finish, galloped out in front. Rock-solid debut.