Illman: Laurel horses to watch for week of Feb. 17, 2020

CREATIVE ALIBI

Trainer: Lacey Gaudet

Last race: Feb. 14, 2nd

Finish: 1st by 1 1/2

Beyer: 46

Making her first start on dirt, this filly was much the best in a $10,000 maiden claimer, but was disqualified by the stewards. Steadied along the inside on the backstretch, she split horses in the stretch, but drifted out under left-handed urging and bothered another foe. Once she straightened out, she was getting away from the field and galloped out very well. Shouldn't have too much trouble with another $10,000 field, but it will be interesting to see if they hike her up in class.

:: To stay up to date, follow us on: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter

LAST CHUKKER

Trainer: Rodolfo Salomon-Sanchez

Last race: Feb. 14, 1st

Finish: 2nd by 3

Beyer: 53

Took a needed drop to a $5,000 non-winners of three and had all sorts of traffic issues on the turn and into the stretch. Ran on once clear and is a threat to win at that level going a one-turn mile.

DESHACKLED

Trainer: Hamilton Smith

Last race: Feb. 13, 1st

Finish: 3rd by 2 1/2

Beyer: 58

Sent on a hard chase to go after a well-meant first-time starter through hot fractions, put that one away on the turn and dug in gamely to get a piece in a solid waiver maiden-claiming event. His good speed suits the class level and he is getting better with each start.