Hersh: Fair Grounds horses to watch for week of Jan. 30, 2019

December Seven
Trainer: Paul McGee
Last race: Jan. 26, race 5
Finish: Fifth, beaten one length
Beyer Speed Figure: 86

First start in nine months came on turf and so far in career 6-year-old gelding has been a dirt horse. Set moderate pace and held surprisingly well considering layoff/surface. In for $80K tag here in this optional claimer, and since he was almost 22-1 here the price might still be square in second start back from break.

Wanna Snuggle
Trainer: Bret Calhoun
Last race: Jan. 25, race 4
Finish: Third, beaten 2 1/2 lengths
Beyer Speed Figure: 63

Post 13 in a one-mile turf race with a fairly short run to the first turn offers few good options. Dropped out to the back of the field while the eventual winner set a slow pace. Had to come wide round turn and into stretch while heavily favored runner-up saved ground, and at eighth pole was short of room while attempting to angle far outside. Late lead change and nice little burst when she finally did it. Only second start on turf and won first (at EVD last summer) easily. Plenty of grass upside.