Free's Del Mar plays for Monday, July 31

I really hate this wagering column.

Eleven days into the Del Mar meet, every suggested wager has lost.

The sad part is that while this column has been dreadful, the complete Del Mar analysis published in Daily Racing Form and available online has produced 33 winning selections from the first 94 races (35 percent) and a flat-bet profit.

Nevertheless, the hunt for ?value? will continue in this value-oriented column. Besides, what are the chances are of going an entire meet without cashing a ticket?

The only good news Sunday was the scratch of race-1 wager Eligant Wager. It saved $25. In race 8, the Bing Crosby Handicap, Premium Saltine was not good enough, and it was not even close.

With trepidation, it is on to Monday.

Race 3

Miami Bay is not the most likely winner of this maiden-claimer for 2-year-olds. He also is not likely to start anywhere close to his 15-1 morning line. What the gelding does possess is early speed, at least as much as the favorite, John the Maitre D.

Recognizing that John the Maitre D is the likely winner, we?ll back the second preference at 6-1 or higher.

The bet: $25 win Miami Bay (minimum odds 6-1).

Race 6

Time to lower the aim, and wager on a likely winner. Crept Out found his niche as a late-running sprinter with a romp last out despite much trouble through the turn. Confident trainer Mike Mitchell jumps him from $32,000 claiming to $62,500 claiming. And since the race is for 3-year-olds, the jump is not as big as it appears.

Listed at 7-2 on the line, Crept Out is worth a bet at 5-2 or higher.

The bet: $25 win Crept Out (minimum odds 5-2).

Tuesday is beach day. Be back Wednesday.

Total wagers previous day: $25.
Total return previous day: $0.
Total win/loss Saturday: minus $25.

Total wagers for meet: $435.
Total return for meet: $0.
Total win/loss for meet: minus $435.