Graded stakes analysis: Delaware Handicap

Looking to beat PRINCESS OF SYLMAR (#6), the even-money Morning Line favorite in the Grade 1, $750,000 Delaware Handicap? Me too.

How about BELLE GALLANTEY (#1)? Sure, she was behind the favorite in the Ogden Phipps last time out but she is a mare with some upside, as the race flow may work to her advantage. There's not a whole lot of pace in the 1 1/4 mile Delaware Handicap, and though she was off the pace in the Phipps she does have some speed. She may be able to shake loose and control the pace, and that's almost never a bad thing at Delaware Park, which usually carries speed pretty well. PRINCESS OF SYLMAR has enough early zip of her own but perhaps a pace edge will be enough for BELLE GALLANTEY to beat her.

I'll also include MOLLY MORGAN (#3) in exotics, as she was sharp in victory in her latest. She has never been this far but the pedigree suggests that 10 furlongs won't be an issue.

My plays will include a win bet on BELLE GALLANTEY, and I'll plays exactas with her and PRINCESS OF SYLMAR and MOLLY MORGAN.