Illman: Laurel horses to watch for week of Jan. 20, 2020

KEEPER IN SPITE

Trainer: John Robb

Last race: Jan. 20, 6th

Finish: 3rd by 4 1/4

Beyer: 35

Making first start off the claim and first with blinkers, this filly showed high speed from the outside post, pushed the other pace factor into defeat and held on gamely to be third. Looms a dangerous pace threat against $10,000 maiden claimers in shorter sprints.

ROOKIE SALSA

Trainer: Claudio Gonzalez

Last race: Jan. 20, 2nd

Finish: 1st by 3/4

Beyer: 69

Stymied by trouble en route to third-place finish on Dec. 27, Rookie Salsa found trouble once again in first start off Gonzalez claim. Hemmed in behind horses to upper stretch, the stakes-winning gelding altered course outside, then came inside the drifting pacesetter with a strong run to win going away. Might be ready to hike back up to the $62,500 optional claiming ranks.

HAMMERIN AAMER

Trainer: Brittany Russell

Last race: Jan. 19, 4th

Finish: 6th by 5 3/4

Beyer: 83

Making third start off long layoff, the 6-year-old gelding seemed to be moving sweetly on the turn of this one-turn mile, but was locked in behind horses to upper stretch and could never kick on over muddy going in the final eighth. Deserves one more chance at the non-winners of two other than level.