Mr. Baker back after almost two years
Determining the classiest horses in Friday’s third race at Gulfstream Park, a $44,000 allowance sprint with a $62,500 claiming condition, isn’t difficult. They are the multiple stakes winners Mr. Baker and Speechify.
Both fall short in terms of other handicapping considerations though, with Mr. Baker being unraced since October 2014, when sixth in the Grade 3 Phoenix at Keeneland, and Speechify having gone winless in his six starts in 2015-16.
The other three entrants exit the Sea of Grass Stakes for Florida-breds at Gulfstream on June 26. Master Blender, Colormepompom, and Aces for John ran fifth, eighth, and ninth.
Even off a lengthy hiatus, Mr. Baker may be favored. He has been firing bullets at Gulfstream Park West for trainer Ralph Ziadie and owner Acclaimed Racing Stable, and Edgard Zayas, aboard for three of his four wins in 2014, including two stakes, will ride.
Although Speechify is coming off a nonthreatening sixth in the Bob Umphrey Turf Sprint on July 2, he could move forward. Friday’s race is his second start of the year, and he is shifting from turf to his preferred surface of dirt. Four of his five victories have come on the Gulfstream Park main track.
Key Contenders
Mr. Baker, by Imperialism
Last 3 Beyers: 78-90-100
◗ He has worked 32 times since last starting in the 2014 Phoenix. Since April, he has worked 11 times, mostly on a weekly or biweekly basis.
Master Blender, by Pomeroy
Last 3 Beyers: 85-71-72
◗ Surprisingly went to the lead in the Sea of Grass Stakes after having stalked the leaders in prior starts. He was beaten 2 3/4 lengths.
◗ His 85 last-race Beyer Speed Figure gives him an edge of seven to 16 points over the opposition in terms of last-out figures.
Speechify, by Harlan’s Holiday
Last 3 Beyers: 69-69-66
◗ Fell over a downed rival in the Woodford Stakes last fall at Keeneland and hasn’t produced in three starts since.
◗ His trainer, Ralph Nicks, wins with a high percentage of starters both second off the layoff and going turf to dirt.