Hammersly: Saratoga pick five for Saturday, Aug. 26
Race 9
DREFONG, the reigning sprint champ, had a disastrous return at Del Mar, where he lost his rider. However, he’s continued to work strongly, and the fact that trainer Bob Baffert shipped him here instead of staying home for a Grade 2 at Del Mar on Sunday is a thumbs-up. MIND YOUR BISCUITS wasn’t training as well as trainer Chad Summers wished a couple weeks ago, and he was thinking of skipping this. However, the top sprinter has reportedly perked up of late, so the fact that he’s in here encourages. TOM’S READY can pack a wallop and may be best as a late-running sprinter. (3)
Race 10
The two invading Euros appear to hold the aces as ERUPT and IDAHO are top-class. The former is reportedly doing well and should get the firm footing he desires, while the latter comes off a best-yet run when third in a brutally tough Group 1 in England, beating full brother and multiple Grade 1/Group 1-winning stablemate Highland Reel. (2)
:: Get bonus PPs for Saturday's late pick four at Canterbury Park
Race 11
GOOD SAMARITAN looked super in winning the Grade 2 Jim Dandy and should get another good pace setup. GIRVIN continues to progress and should enjoy this longer trip. WEST COAST has hinted at big ability and may be ready to take his game up a notch. TAPWRIT won the Belmont in smart fashion and has worked well. IRAP continues to develop and has heart. CLOUD COMPUTING is better than his Jim Dandy suggests. FAYEQ could be your bomb as the brother of Horse of the Year Rachel Alexandra continues to develop. (7)
Race 12
You have to take a stand somewhere, and we’ll do it here with LADY ELI, the best turf mare in the land. She was originally to skip this and wait for another race, but the fact that trainer Chad Brown enters her tells you she’s doing great. (1)
Race 13
PROGNOSTICATION has been knocking on the door and looks ready to break through. ALL ABOUT VOODOO showed talent in his debut but then raced too far last time. He cuts back in distance and drops. MOHICAN returns to turf and routing, which appears to be his best game. (3)
Ticket
3, 6, 10 with 6, 7 with 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 12 with 1 with 4, 6, 8 X $.50 = $126
