Pimlico: Closer Looks for May 17, 2014

Race 1

Golden Glint

Sire wins with approximately 10% of his first-time starters and with approximately 12% of his turf starters, and dam won once from 15 starts for 41k, including 1 of 13 turf starts for 39k; he's making his belated career debut as a 5-year-old, and he's a 1/2 to Graceful Touch (3-28, 50k, including 2 of 15 turf starts for 30k).

Mount Coronet

This colt showed a little something in his three starts over turf as a 2-year-old and it wouldn't be a shock if he was ready for better in his first start as a 3-year-old; he's out of a stakes winning dam who won 3 of 10 turf starts for 164k, and Carrasco has won with 8 of 30 (27%) mounts for this barn in 2014.

Leothelionhearted

Sire wins with approximately 13% of his turf starters and multiple stakes winning dam won 3 of 5 starts for 151k, and she didn't make a turf start; this colt is a 1/2 to Really Right (2-12, 75k, inclduing 1 of 5 turf starts for 26k); like to see Napravnik get the call for his first turf test.

Relentless Ride

He's a very interesting option to consider in here when looking at what he did in his two starts over turf as a 3-year-old, and his most recent effort after a layoff sprinting can serve as a useful conditioner for this; maybe there's something to be said for him hanging around the maiden ranks for a while, but he has the look of a contender against these.

Phlash Phelps

Sire wins with approximately 13% of his turf starters and dam was winless from two starts, and she didn't make a start over turf; this colt is a 1/2 to multiple stakes winner Action Andy (12-40, 666k, including 4 of 14 turf starts for 127k) and Saintly Love (12-32, 199k, including 9 of 16 turf starts for 147k).

Rebel Spy

Sire wins with approximately 11% of his turf starters and G1 stakes placed dam won 4 of 12 starts for 146k, and she didn't make a turf start; 450k yearling purchase deserves a chance to see what he can do racing over turf.

Big Star Bound

Sire wins with approximately 12% of his turf starters and stakes winning dam won 2 of 8 starts for 111k, and she didn't make a start over turf; this gelding is a 1/2 to minor stakes placed Jana (4-42, 115k, including 2 of 23 turf starts for 53k).

Margin

This colt gets a rider switch to Castellano for this, and even though his one start over turf wasn't an encouraging performance, he's a 1/2 to multiple graded stakes winner Lattice (4-12, 346k over turf); he has a live look to him while making his first start for a high win percentage outfit that does well with starters first after a claim.

Interpol

He's by a top turf sire and he's out of a stakes winning dam who won 3 of 9 starts for 204k, including 3 of 7 turf starts for 203k; lightly raced 3-year-old shows up for a currently live barn and Garcia has won with 9 of 31 (29%) mounts for this outfit in 2014.

Star Crossed Lover

If you only focus on what he's done in his three starts over turf, he has every bit the look of a top contender, and like to see that he ran well in his one start over this turf course; not going to argue with anyone for looking favorably in this direction.

Greek God

This colt has some turf in his pedigree and it wouldn't be a surprise if he was ready to improve over what he showed in his five starts as a 2-year-old in his 3-year-old racing debut; runner up from latest won next out at Tam on 2/12 going 1 1/16m over turf vs. MSW rivals with a 73 Beyer.

Madog

Respect the fact that his most recent start was his sharpest performance to date, but that was against 25-20k MCL's, and looking at this as being a tough spot for him to be going after his first career win.

Crown Thy Good

410k purchase is by a top turf sire and he's out of a multiple stakes winning dam who won 4 of 27 starts for 403k, including 2 of 9 turf starts for 147k; feel that this gelding is eligible to be ready for better now that he has some racing experience to draw from.

Chollie D

Sunriver has been a poor influence as a turf sire but this colt has run well enough in his 10 turf starts to suggest that he can get himself into the mix against these; leaning toward others for the top spot, but a minor award isn't out of the question.

Magic Cash

If this race has to be taken off the turf, he'll command his share of respect against these after a promising career debut, and he's a 1/2 to minor stakes placed Delightful Magic (4-19, 167k); Mercedes-homebred can't be ignored. - Brian Pochman

Slip By

This colt has some quality to his pedigree and have to respect his chances in this event if he draws in after an encouraging turf debut; it will be worth paying attention to where Castellano lands as he's also named to ride Margin.

Race 2

Outhaul

Bold finish last month over the Atlantic City lawn, an ideal prep for this assignment; veteran route runner may not be the clear speed today even with the inside advantage yet still should be able to stay within range; drops an important 6 pounds from the last assignment and any moisture on the track should work to his advantage.

Tooth N Claw

Stone closer obviously prefers the Laurel surface over this soil; had all kinds of trouble in the last pair of efforts and could earn a minor prize with a clear rallying path; still cannot vote for the top spot based on his local history.

Shordawatyadrink

This gelding is similar to the previous runner in that he is a decent rallier at times but one who just does not like this particular oval; shut out during the last 2 seasons, it is unlikely he can end the drought against those who are course and distance winners; pass for now.

Lagi Lagi

Just broke through the n3l condition when claimed; spots much in the way of route experience and although in sharp form of late, this rise in company seems too steep; might be able to middle move with some power but will probably be outkicked when the serious running begins.

Lunar Rock

Sports a solid in-the-money record and he made 2 moves in his local debut when recapturing third; very steady Beyer pattern during the last few months (regardless of distance) is a definite plus factor; versatile gelding looks like a good fit if patiently ridden in this spot.

Count to Seven

Yet another deep closer to consider; he has never earned an exacta finish over this course but, based on his lifetime portfolio, may be worth some inclusion in the trifecta approach; still eligible for the n4l condition, he will need to run a personal best here in order to earn a larger share.

Regal Warrior

Warhorse is much better than the latest performance indicates where he found himself in an early duel before fading; previous pair of victories were extra-sharp although they were at the one-turn mile; has handled this distance in the past numerous times and can rebound from the latest disappointment at 2 to 1; consider.

Greek Thunder

Accelerated to the lead and then drew clear when winning here exactly a month ago; that was a soft field in comparison to this and he will have to rally from much further back today if the pacesetting types remain in attendance; seems in dire need of a lengthy duel in order to have a realistic chance.

Who Dat Boy

Exits a prep race on the turf where he flashed some fighting speed until the midway point; ran a respectable third in this same race last year when outfinished by No Brakes (going to post at only 3 to 1); should be more inviting odds in this edition.

No Brakes

Unleashed a bold late charge in this same affair in 2013 when capturing the place; showed his distinct fondness for this course last month when he closed strong to get up when sprinting (overcoming very pedestrian middle fractions when doing so); outermost post not that big a concern as he will be reserved for one late charge; obvious true contender. - Jim Kachulis

Race 3

Target Sighted

Starts from the fence while again trying to get on the lawn after his first off the barn's claim was rained off; it's been a while since he's reached the Beyer par for the level and his lack of lick won't help much from here in this bulky field; maybe for a share if he gets clear sailing.

Xmas Sky

Sharpened his early foot for the stretchout while sprinting in a local off the turfer in his first start of the year; gelding ran pretty well in each of his local surface spins and that gate to wire effort 2 back at Laurel would make him a serious threat if he were to run to it today; from this inside slot they may have to run him down.

Romp City

MTO worked sharply for this at Monmouth last weekend for his first start for a new barn that excels with this type; he offered little resistance when third at 3-10 in a cheaper heat last month but he's certainly capable of running better and he is a local main track winner; contender of the rains come.

Good Chemistry

MTO makes his first start since the summer if the rains come; gelding hasn't won in a long time, but he's run well off breaks in the past and this barn boasts some nice recent numbers with comebackers; owns a wet track score and that's the likely condition he'll see if he gets to go.

Arrive

Earned a big number in running away from cheaper in his first start in nearly a year and now he'll take the next step up the class ladder; he's had plenty of time to get over the try and this barn excels with runners second back from the break; showed a nice turn of foot in his comebacker and looms the one to beat again today.

Prospero

MTO stretches out if the rains come and he's yet to try a wet track; he'll drop a level as the barn already offers him for the optional tag which they paid for him 2 starts back; maybe for a minor award but prefer to beat him on the win end.

Going to Market

Beaten last out chalk at the level changes hands off the claim by an outfit that does well with this type; maybe he goes better second over this sod and he did run well to score a couple of times on the Tampa Bay Downs green this past winter; price will be better but his last remains a bit of a concern.

Tom Kitten

New York bred gets a new pilot for the class rise in his local debut after running ok on both turf and dirt of late in Florida; gelding looks to like course with some give in it so maybe some rain would help this 10 time winner get in the exotics mix today.

Manchurian High

Late runner returns from half a year on the shelf for a new outfit that hasn't started any this year; he was able to get up for a share of each of his last 3 on the lawn before hitting the shelf last year, but he'll be facing a tougher bunch in this heat and will likely need one before we see his best.

You're The Boss (GB)

Import is the first part of the barn's coupling and he'll get Lasix for his stateside debut; away more than half a year, he'll return to the green for this one but he's yet to go this far and it's not clear what quality he's been facing; board may tell a better story about the first of the outfit's unknowns in this heat.

Soup d'Coupe

Just missed after finding trouble late as the chalk in his first start of the season; though he was facing claimers in the comebacker he did run well at this level in the fall and he'll lure a top pilot; new outfit has had a rough stand and this guy's running style could pose him some trouble in a big field.

Redact (IRE)

Barn's other half also makes his first start in the states in this spot; it's been a long time since he's seen the winner's circle and don't know that he's going to love this trip; another who was running against questionable stock overseas, we'll watch the tote for more clues.

Love's Not Fair

Didn't do much in his return to the races but he should be better with the effort behind him and he ran quite well on the green on this circuit last fall; he'll need to take a good step forward to contend at this level and it's a tough draw, but the price should be right.

Mr. Handsome

Didn t make much of an impact against weaker in either of his last 2 starts and now he'll start from a tough outside draw; barn is recently profitable on the surface switch, but this guy hasn't run particularly well of late on the local weeds and looks to need significant improvement to step with these; passing on him today.

Cheyenne Nation

Eight year old starts from the extreme outside draw while looking to make his first start in more than 5 months in this spot; he owns some of the better surface numbers in the field and though he's yet to start over this sod he hasn't had much trouble taking his course with him; maybe he's lost a step but he's returned to top form after coming back off breaks in the past and it's encouraging to see them put him in a protected spot today; with Rosario getting aboard he looms a huge threat first time back. - Steve Grabowski

Race 4

I. E. Flash

Won his career debut in the slop and is 1-for-1 on less-than-firm turf courses so any moisture is good; wild rally off the bench to post a career-best Beyer speed figure but was on the wrong end of a 3-horse win photo finish; will have to win against a speed-favoring turf; in 12 PIM-5F turf races from May 8-12 seven winners scored on the lead.

Kathy's Kitten

Today marks the shortest-distance test of career; getting up in time is the issue; won his first 3 starts of 2013 which gives hope that he will return running for this; the show finisher from last posted an 84 speed figure in a next-out FG-25K-claiming win.

High Bar

The 12 minor awards in his Life box leaps off the form at you as a runner who often races well in defeat; that was not the case in latest where he fired early but faded to finish last; the 2-back winner repeated in a GP-100K stakes with a 98 Beyer then made it 3 in a row in an optional claimer with a 99 speed figure.

Star Maneuver

37 days since posting a career-best Beyer in an upset win on PIM turf snapping a 2-0-0-0 record on today's turf course; last looks better since the show and 6th-place finishers posted a 75-73 speed figures in next-out CT-PIM allowance wins; hopes not to fall too far back early as speed held strongly last week on PIM turf at 5F.

The Man's Hoss

Lone turf win came via a wild rally; was outrun throughout in last exiting his lowest Beyer since June when wanting no parts of PIM dirt; his 2-back turf race on today's oval was a troubled trip and the race looks better since the runner-up finisher posted an 81 speed figure in his next-out PIM-OPC win.

Peppermint Prince

Faded in his only-PIM grass start while in 2014 the prior-good gate speed has been missing and needs a wakeup call from recent paper; reunites with the PIM-5F dirt win rider from one year ago suggesting he wants this race moved to the main track; latest Beyer suggests he's on the improve but overall others appeal more.

Mystical Terp

Main Track Only entry exits a best-last-race Beyer; he was on the top of his game last fall at PRX winning a dirt 16K claimer at 6F with a field-best Beyer speed figure; came up with a huge race at Philly in last but obviously has a lot of questions to answer in Maryland finishing 5th in his only PIM dirt start back in 2012.

Majestic Hussar

Sire is 4-for-62 with 1st-grasses; he never raced on turf but took a Grade 1-7F dirt sprint; is out of an unaced dam who produced 2 North American grass winners including G3-turfer 243K-Joes Blazing Aaron; 241 Turf Tomlinson is the lowest among those slated to race on grass; superb-long layoff trainer cuts him back to his shortest-distance test ever for this.

Ascauga

Main Track Only entry has had stamina issues in previous wet-dirt races while hoping not to bounce after posting a career-best Beyer 16 days ago when coming off a 57-day freshening; last dirt win was at much longer than this.

Awesome Arceno

G1-dirt sire is 23-for-344 with 1st grassers; he is out of an 0-for-1 dam who finished 6th in her only grass start; she produced 3 winners from 3 other foals to race but none raced on grass; clearly recent dirt form has been solid and figures to want this moved to the main track; the 3-back winner repeated in a PRX starter alw. with an 87 Beyer; barn is 1-for-33 dirt-to-turf since 2013.

Pushin' On

Main Track Only entry is a horse for the course going 2-for-2 on PIM dirt including a 3-back career-best Beyer off a freshening; back in just 1 week for this which is a high-win percentage angle for his trainer; with a 3-0-0-0 wet-dirt record he hopes this is moved off the grass for a fast track.

Silvertonguedtommy

The PIM-5F turf races have been won by speed horses in recent races and he fits that category scoring his debut win gate-to-wire; only 3-year-old in the field gets his 2nd crack at older rivals; changed styles in latest when stalking wide and ran well in defeat despite not being in his own element which is winging from the gate.

Tuxedo Ray

Main Track Only entry is doing the rain dance going 3-for-4 on wet tracks; was claimed off a high-win percentage trainer which is not a good angle; the new barn scores a solid 20% winners 1st off the buy but brings him back in just 6 days for the class raise.

Hope Still Springs

Main Track Only entry was claimed again competing for his 5th different barn since November; solid-PIM effort and ran well at LRL 3-back closing at longer with a career-best Beyer attached; if the main track is wet hard to ignore his 0-for-10 record on the off going.

Rob the Cradle

Both wins occurred on turf but in recent races his dirt form has been better; was ignored on the odds board in his last grass start at PIM 2 back when no match for the runner-up finisher who Beyered 81 in a next-out PIM-OPC win; would be a surprise.

Just Sayin

Exits his lowest Beyer since 2007 and on a winless drought since July, 2012, 12 races ago in a DEL-7.5F turf rallying alw. victory; today projects for a similar-wide trip as his 13 post fade to Kathy's Kitten on PIM less-than-firm grass. - Art Gropper

Race 5

Sneaking Uponyou

8-year-old ran a huge race in his latest in a state-bred stakes at Tampa but he's stepping into open company here and the horse to his immediate right figures to be breathing all over him right from the start; horse that finished second wasn't much of a factor when he came back to finish fourth in a $90K sprint stakes at Gulfstream; this guy has plenty of back class but he's going to be under the gun early and he could have a hard time holding them off late.

Happy My Way

Not sure what turned him around but he has posted triple-digit Beyer Speed Figures in his last four races and he beat a couple of decent horses in his romp in the Sir Shackleton at Gulfstream March 29; Dad's Laugh and Ribo Bobo both came back to win stakes with Beyer's of 100 and 98; maybe he just loved Gulfstream but he had a nice work at Monmouth May 5 and if he doesn't bounce he could be a handful; the pick.

Lemon Drop Dream

Another 4-year-old that has improved dramatically lately and after waltzing through his conditions he became a Grade 3 winner in his latest at Oaklawn; the heavily favored horse that finished last won a minor stakes on the turf in his next start at Evangeline; this could set up nicely for this guy and being a half-brother to a couple of Grade 2 winners his future could be bright; big shot.

Salutos Amigos

He hasn't lost since he moved to Jacobson's barn and he posted his career-best Beyer Speed Figure in his romp in the slop at Belmont last Saturday Jacobson must have liked the way he came out of the race to wheel him back this quickly and the past five years he has a 25 percent strike rate with horses coming back in a week or less; he gets a serious class test today but he might be up to it; contender.

Service for Ten

Hard to knock a horse that has been in the tri in 13 of is 14 starts and he earned his career-best Beyer Speed Figure coming off a longer layoff so he should be good to go; not sure why he got so far behind in his latest in the Grade 3 General George at Laurel, though, and he'll need to stay a lot closer if he's going to get up in time; maybe for the exotics, but that's about it.

Action Andy

He came into this race with similar form last year but wasn't able to make much of an impact and then went on the shelf for five months so something must have set him back; 7-year-old won 7 races in 2012 but just one since and lately it seems like he wants to be involved early so he could have a hard time keeping up with the two inside horses; prefer others. - Randy Goulding

Race 6

Allwewantforxmas

Multiple stakes placed mare can prove to be a major player in here if she can bounce back to one of her better efforts and she was last seen in a productive race; runner up from latest won next out at Bel on 5/11 going 6f over turf in a 100k stakes with an 87 Beyer, and third finisher won next out at CD on 5/10 going 5f over turf in a 65k stakes with a 94 Beyer.

Too Clever by Half

Her overall form sprinting over turf has been solid, and she sports a 9-for-21 race record over turf, but it does look like she's going to need to see a number of these show up with less than their best to have a chance at the top spot; prefer to look toward others.

Madame Giry

Not sure if she's lost her best step or not, but this multiple stakes winning mare can be very tough to tackle in this spot if she can reproduce one of her better performances; this barn has been getting the job done with turf sprinters and it's interesting to see them returning her to action on short rest.

Tizgale

There isn't any questioning that the move to turf has agreed with this miss, but this has to be considered a difficult step up in class for her; runner up from latest won next out at GP on 3/7 going 5f over turf vs. 75k OPC's with an 80 Beyer.

Galiana

She's a stakes winner racing over dirt, and she put together a decent winning performance sprinting over turf in her first start back from a layoff in her latest outing, but she's going to need to take her game to another level to threaten the top contenders in this one.

Quality Lass

Her career best Beyer Speed Figure was earned racing over dirt, something to consider if this race has to be moved to the main track, but this minor stakes placed miss has some quality form sprinting over turf on her card to consider, and she attracts the services of Castellano.

Ageless

For the most part, this stakes winning mare has been razor sharp since being returned from a long layoff last July, and her three starts sprinting over turf have been quality ones; runner up from latest won next out at Bel on 5/11 going 6f over turf in a 100k stakes with an 87 Beyer, and third finisher won next out at CD on 5/10 going 5f over turf in a 65k stakes with a 94 Beyer; Garcia has won with 8 of 37 (22%) mounts for this barn in 2014.

Nastar Medallist

It is worth noting that she did run well in this event in 2013, but her best effort just isn't up to the level of the top contenders in here; perhaps a minor award isn't out of the question, but looking toward others for the top spot.

Knit One Purr Too

She hasn't run a bad race from five starts and she enters this race off of a stakes score, but she's going to need to really step it up along the Beyer Speed Figure scale to prove to be the one in this spot; Whitacre has won with 13 of 42 (31%) mounts for this barn in 2014.

Perfect Measure

Wildcat Heir has been a positive influence as a turf sire and this mare has done some nice work overall racing on turf while finishing in the top three in 11 of 14 turf attempts; nevertheless, this looks like a tough spot for her to step in with stakes competition.

Jewel of a Cat

Another representative of fine turf sire Wildcat Heir signed on in here and this filly was a sharp winner in her most recent turf start two races back at Saratoga; multiple stakes winner is making her first start as a 4-year-old and can't ignore the presence of Velazquez; runner up from latest won next out at FG on 11/29 going 1m over turf in a 72k stakes with a 93 Beyer.

Sensible Lady

She's gotten the job done in this event the past two years and she has the look of a strong contender as she gets ready to defend her title once again; there is a long layoff in play, but she's been training at regular intervals and she has a very live look to her in this spot with Rosario aboard.

To My Valentine (FR)

She was beaten by a couple of today's rivals in her most recent start but this stakes winning miss is clearly capable of a better effort than that; runner up from latest won next out at Bel on 5/11 going 6f over turf in a 100k stakes with an 87 Beyer, and third finisher won next out at CD on 5/10 going 5f over turf in a 65k stakes with a 94 Beyer.

The Bop Express

Simply feel that she's never run a race that is strong enough to suggest that she can get the job done in a spot like this and she'll likely need to improve about 15 Beyer Speed Figure points over her previous best in order to have a say in the outcome.

Joyous Music

She needs to see a scratch from the main body of this race in order to draw in and not wild about what she's shown in her three turf starts before now; third-place finisher from latest won next out at CT on 4/16 going 6 1/2f vs. N3X alw. rivals with a 70 Beyer. - Brian Pochman

Race 7

Germaniac

Ranked as an outsider here off 3 straight double-digit length defeats including losses vs. similar rivals; all 3 wins when forwardly placed 2 on the lead but that big-gate speed has been missing; projects to chase Meadowood and Brewing for the front.

Extrasexyhippzster

Exits the 2nd lowest Beyer of his career 1st time on a synthetic surface when handled by the winner who finished 6th next out (88) in the Kentucky Derby; a wet-main track produced the field's best Beyer speed figure which was also his last start at 6F a blowout stakes win; also has a good-fast track record while cutting back to a sprint seems the right answer for a wakeup call.

Jessethemarine

1 race at 6F during career was a deep-closing win which was following a similar layoff as today's; that off-the-pace style fits this PIM track very well; beat the 2-back show finisher who Beyered 78 in a next-out PEN allowance win.

Ground Control

Perfect 2-for-2 so moves into stakes company for the 1st time facing a field loaded with experience; stalked the pace well in both wins stretching out in latest but earned his best Beyer sprinting which he returns to for this; 4 bullet works on the tab suggests he is ready to rumble for this.

Meadowood

With Brewing projects as the main speeds in this event; in 14-PIM races at 6F on dirt from May 8-11 only 3 winners scored gate-to-wire while 10 winners rallied from 3rd or worse at the 1st call; mild worktab in display for an 0-for-15 fresh trainer since 2013.

Moon Song

We talk daily about recent-maiden graduate testing winners for the 1st time and being the toughest-class test ever; he goes right into stakes company off the graduation score in his 1st-ever PIM dirt start; projects to press the pace then hopes to come up with his biggest effort ever to upset.

Elevated

Cuts back to 6F and the only time he's raced at today's distance was a decisive defeat vs Jessethemarine; the 2-back winner repeated in a PIM-100K stakes with an 89 Beyer; beat the 3-back show finisher who Beyered 84 in his next-out AQU-OPC victory.

Prudhoe Bay

Late-running style fits the PIM-dirt course well at 6F; the 3-back career-best Beyer was posted on an all-weather oval defeating the show finisher who posted an 80 speed figure in his next-out GP-OPC win; have not been dazzled by the worktab for this but fits well here.

Brewing

Projects to get a good target in Meadowood if he wants to stalk; closers were winning the majority of 6F dirt races at PIM from May 8-11; exits a best-last-race Beyer when winning his 2nd straight OP stakes showing versatility by winning on the lead and from off the pace and on fast and wet racing surfaces; his 3-back maiden breaker on the lead looks better since the runner-up finisher Beyered 81 in a next-out OP-MSW win. - Art Gropper

Race 8

Special Envoy

Must respect his consistency as he has fired every time and at different venues; nice effort last time but coming from dead last always presents concerns; 3/14 winner repeated in a $75K stakes, then ran out of the money; the winner of this race last year, Redwood Kitten, was also coming off a third at Keeneland; there seems to be enough speed to help the cause; timing will be everything for this racer.

Camden Street

Only poor effort came first time vs. winners; soph got away with the pedestrain splits last time and should be looking at a hotter pace here; the shorter trip helps as he was getting tired in the wins; contender, far from a cinch.

Sonny Inspired

Life and death for the lone win and this may be pushing the envelope going a mile; 2/8 show horse won and was third in $75K optional events since; sire won BC Mile; dam was unraced, this is her first to roll; gelding has more zip than he just showed; should at least muddle the pace.

Wallyanna

Runner was 10-1 on the money line here Friday in an N1X spot; he's trained fast for this and should be in the first flight; this is an ambitious spot for a runner that graduated for a tag; still, must respect everything from this barn.

Joint Custody

Outflanker about 10% with first-time turfers in a 197-runner study; Outflanker himself lost all 10 starts in Europe; stakes winning 3 for 18 dam banked nearly $200K, lost only turf out; lone half sis took one dirt sprint; forced to steady in last and he will not be intimidated by this field; last angle; note this rider is 11 for 35 for this outfit in the last year or so.

Thunder Strike (GB)

Took his fair share of action but just never kicked in stateside debut; who was he facing in Europe; the winner 8/22 ran 3rd beaten a length and a half in a $106K stakes in next and then ran out of the money; the 9/13 winner returned to run dead last in a Group 1 when 20-1; backers can point to the fact that sibling Military Call did win at this trip; rates upset glance.

Germaniac

Henny Hughes 11% with first-time turfers in a 125-runner study; sire took debut at 2, won a couple of G1s, banked over $1.1 million, was never on turf; SW 9 for 30 dam banked nearly $400K, lost only try on grass; the sibling that one cashed once sprinting on dirt; best of 44 bullet locked and loaded; must hurry.

Open the Bank

Far back in all the stakes attempts; gelding has been handled easily by a couple of today's rivals; the trip is within reach and he has won on grass; has some things to iron out.

Ground Control

Awesome Again about 7% with first-time turfers in a 344-runner sample; sire did not race at 2, won in second start, earned $4.3 million, never turfed; SP 2 for 23 dam was 2nd in best turf moment; this is her first to race; note place horse was clear for fun; far too sharp not to take seriously.

Allstar

Been given time since being thrown to the wolves in the Grade 1; 9 furlongs was just too much for him last time; he did pick up ground late in both of the grass races; needs very best.

Elevated

Jump Start about 3% with first-time turfers in a 171-runner survey; sire took debut at 2, won Grade 2 SAR Special, earned over $200K in 5 outs, never turfed; 5 for 24 dam was second once on grass; several multiple race winners in the family; several successful routers in the tree, several won on grass including SW and near $250K earner Serene Harbor; 3/8 winner returned to take the Tesio here; could be compromised by the post. - Brian Mulligan

Race 9

Surtsey

The trainer's 3-for-9 record with 180-day-or more layoff runners is noted as many of these come off long vacations for this; won her grass debut with a stalking style that fits the PIM-grass course perfectly; will be able to save all the ground here then make one run; the 3-back winner and show finisher posted 83-75 Beyer speed figures in next-out WO-Grade 3 and optional-claiming wins.

Embarr

She fires well fresh so hopes not to bounce off her big effort in last; eyes up her 2nd straight PIM-turf stakes winning with a stalking style that fits this grass course well; the victory looks better since the runner-up finisher Beyered 72 in a next-out optional-claiming win.

Somali Lemonade

Scored right on the lead but for this projects to sit just off Brenda's Way then get 1st run on the closers; her field-best Beyer speed figure was posted at today's distance but on a yielding turf course which she has a chance of getting for this.

Brenda's Way

Lone grass start being a 27 Beyer does not hold confidence she will score for the 1st time since January; she's all speed and while Somali Lemonade scored on the lead in last we expect Brenda' to outbreak that one then hopes to go as far as she can on the engine.

Daydreamin Gracie

Projects to stalk the frontrunners for a superb-long layoff trainer; with a 2-for-3 PIM turf record she is scary if ready; beat a lot lesser in her1st start of 2013 at today's distance on PIM firm turf; would not mind this on the main track; her last win was on fast-PIM dirt a stakes-win by 8 lengths.

Lady Ten

California invader for a new trainer/same owner leaving high-win percentage Baffert; the runner-up finisher from last Beyered 90 in a next-out SA-91K-stakes win; her stalking style is a good fit for PIM green but wish the barn produced better than 12%-fresh winners since 2013.

Strathnaver (GB)

Exits a best-last-race Beyer speed figure when prepping for this racing off a long layoff and on a synthetic surface; was edged 2-back in Grade 3 company; 2 of her USA turf wins occurred at today's distance; can she get up in time is the issue on a PIM turf course which recently has favored winners racing close to the pace.

Triple Arch

This race is a matter of conditioning it seems with so many quality runners returning to the races following extended layoffs; last win was a deep-closing score noting that stalkers not deep closers won all of the PIM 1M and 16th turf races last week here..

Starstruck (IRE)

CD-fresh win 1st time in the USA is noted racing off the bench for this; willing to excuse last trio racing on less-than-firm footing; both grass wins were posted on firm green; is another deep closer who may be compromised by a stalkers' type turf course.

Watsdachances (IRE)

25%-winning long-layoff trainer since 2013 is noted; defeated the 8th and 9th-place finishers from last; they Beyered 84-72 in next-out AQU-OPC and PID alw. wins; would have to be a few lengths best to win this from the widest draw sure to lose ground; was edged by the 2-back runner-up finisher who Beyered 91 in a next-out BEL-200K-stakes win. - Art Gropper

Race 10

Sea View Chico

Draws the fence for his first local start after skipping through a couple of quick drills at Delaware Park; he's fast enough early to secure a good spot down inside from the bell and the number he earned in the front running score 2 back at Fair Grounds puts him right in the thick of this contentious heat; new pilot has had a rough year but this barn is no stranger to the stakes ranks.

Six Spot

Adds the hood after running ok from the rail in a similar spot on the Arkansas Derby undercard at Oaklawn Park; second and third place finishers from that heat both returned to run poorly; he did improve once they sent him long and he draws inside for a top outfit, but prefer to side with others on the win end.

Life in Shambles

Steps up to stakes company for the first time while seeking his third straight score; gray has yet to try 2 turns on the main track which is far from insignificant and he didn't fare so well when he tackled the task first out on the lawn; lightly raced gelding has a right to keep getting better, though, and he has been working well in New York for this one.

He's Achance

He's another looking for his third straight score and his 2 wins came against older rivals; he did set a solid early clip first time going long and the slow final fraction was understandable, but he'll probably have to work harder for the top in this one; looking at others on the win end.

Master Lightning

Stakes placed gelding switches surfaces for his local debut after splitting the field in his Gulfstream turf debut; Pletcher barn does excellent work with runners moving to the main track and their first call pilot will get aboard him for the initial time today; his lone 2 turn score came over a winterized surface in New York and though he's kept some good company, he wasn't much of a threat when in against those big names in his running line; connections will probably take stronger tote support than he should in this wide open heat.

Starry Moon

Both of this shipper's wins came at Penn National and he wasn't a threat to the winner in either of his starts in stakes company on this circuit earlier in the year; number he earned in the last out placing with older allowance runners looks pretty good in this spot and maybe he gets the fractions his off the pace style would appreciate; barn does nice work second off the break.

Mr. Rover

Gelding ran well while hitting the board in all 7 of his starts last year, but the subsequent move to the stakes ranks has hardly been as fruitful; he did show improved early lick in the local Tesio last month but the argued splits were slow and was nowhere to be found as the wire approached; he's earned some numbers that could get him in the mix for a minor share, but can't use him on the win end.

Ground Control

Undefeated colt steps up to the stakes ranks to try 2 turns for the initial time in just his third career start; his pedigree certainly suggests he'll prosper on the stretchout and he's been working like he's on his toes for this engagement; sharp outfit has gotten off to a nice start at the stand and they hit at a nice clip with runners returning from short breaks such as this one; contender.

Allstar

Gelding didn't belong in the G1 Florida Derby last out and proved it with his last place finish on the heels of a moderate sprint score over allowance runners at Calder this winter; while he may find these easier he hasn't run anything that would suggest he'll return with an effort that fits in this heat; looms another big price.

Class Leader

All it took was the stretchout to 2 turns for this guy to strut his stuff as he scored in each of his first 2 route spins before fading from a wide tracking spot in the G3 Illinois Derby at a slightly longer trip than he'll tackle here; he did get quicker clips in front of him in his wins than he did in his stakes debut and though the pace could prove to be little more than honest in here there are quite a few who want to be on or near the lead and that could help him; expect he'll take plenty of support at the windows, but even from out here he looks to be the one to hold off.

Charge Now

Kin to Kentucky Derby winner Super Saver makes his first start against winners in the stakes ranks and he'll do it from the extreme outside starting slot; fresh colt looked pretty good breaking his maiden first time on dirt while making just his second career start and the runner up in that heat returned to break his maiden earlier in the month in New York with a 95 Beyer; he's another who won't go unnoticed at the windows and it won't be easy from here, but a top pilot sticks with him and he should have some room for upside; giving him the repeat nod. - Steve Grabowski

Race 11

Fredericksburg

Grade 3 stakes placed gelding saw his game take a noticeable turn for the better back in December, and after breaking from post nine in his most recent start, he takes early ground loss out of play by drawing the rail for this; this really isn't a bad spot for him to meet up with graded stakes competition again.

Nutello

He's G1 stakes placed in America and France and like to see the effort he showed up with in his 5-year-old racing debut in his latest outing while wearing blinkers for the first time; he's capable of making noise in here on a top try and he might be ready to run a good one while making his second start back from a layoff.

Charming Kitten

He's developed a nice level of consistency to his game with the addition of blinkers and today's 1 1/16m distance is right in his wheelhouse; add in the fact that he has Pletcher and Velazquez behind him and there's plenty to be positive about in this direction.

Roadhog

He just seems to run a good one every time he goes out and this multiple stakes winner was sharp in a near-miss performance in his 7-year-old racing debut in his latest outing; leaning toward others for the top spot, but this multiple stakes winner owns the ability to adapt to any early pace scenario and he is worth considering underneath in the exotics.

Hamp

Late running type beat a couple of today's rivals in his most recent start and he looks like he's going better than ever entering this contest; this is clearly a tougher bunch from top-to-bottom, and it doesn't look like the early pace will heat up all that much, but not willing to count him out of the mix.

Hey Leroy

Draw a line through that dirt start two back and there's nothing but sharp recent turf form to look at, and his connections likely feel that he's ready for another sharp run to call upon Castellano for this; this is his first attempt over the Pimlico turf, but if he brings his 'A' game to the table, he'll be tough to tackle.

Chamois

Nicely bred runner did some nice work racing over turf as a 3-year-old and he capped off 2013 with a sharp stakes victory, and he earned a 97 Beyer Speed Figure for that performance; it is worth noting the presence of Rosario aboard another in here, but Bravo has won with 9 of 38 (24%) mounts for this barn in 2014.

Up With the Birds

He's the only G1 winner in this field and the only one in here with more than $1 million in earnings; feel that he's eligible to be primed for a top try while making his second start back from a layoff and his second start as a 4-year-old; Rosario gets the call aboard this Sam-Son Farms-homebred and it looks like he tuned up with a sharp four furlongs on May 2 in preparation for this.

Utley

He's another in here with a big turf pedigree and this multiple stakes placed performer has proven that he can dial up a strong performance on his best day; he looks like he's heading in the right direction for the third start of his current form cycle, and Prado has been aboard for a few of his sharper starts.

Quick Wit

Grade 2 winner has shown the ability to outrun his odds from time-to-time and like to see him stringing together starts after only making two trips to post in 2013; that said, not sure that is best effort is quite strong enough for these, and the outside post isn't ideal. - Brian Pochman

Race 12

Dynamic Impact

He was motoring late in last as he got the last furlong in :12.19; the horse he beat a neck in the maiden breaker returned to graduate and then was second a neck in a $100,000 stakes at Oaklawn; although this racer's dam was sprint only and he is the lone foal, his sire was a double winner of the Breeders' Cup Classic; in good hands but he has had two tough races in a row and now he faces his toughest test yet; going back to the 2013 closer, his Beyers have been on the increase and one could envision a trip where he will sit a bit farther off the pace than where he has been; he'll need to make another step forward to get there; no rail drawn entrant in the Preakness has hit the exacta since Tabasco Cat won the race in 1994.

General a Rod

Tough colt competes and he did have trouble last time; he steadied in close quarters leaving the 6-furlong pole, dropped to the rail, moved back out, was making progress with an eighth of a mile to go, and then was forced to steady near the wire; 2 regressions on the Beyer scale since posting the triple digit figure against arch-rival Wildcat Red; he should be able to use his tactical speed to advantage here but there are others with designs on the lead; needs a rebound run.

California Chrome

He had the 5 tough races in a row and will be trying to win for the third time in 6 weeks; the signature move keyed his Derby win when he opened up and had enough left in the tank to hold it together while being wrapped up in the process; in this day and age, runners are not really made to come back this fast in just 2 weeks but that is how the game is played; the shorter trip could work to his advantage and his tactical speed figures to again put him in the position to score; although his final Derby time was the slowest on a fast strip since 1974, this meteor is still the king of the hill until he is knocked off the mountain; they will have to run to beat this colt; 8 of the last 12 Derby favorites returned to run first or second in this classic.

Ring Weekend

Out to make amends but runner has looked like a new horse this year; since 1970, only 7 runners won the second jewel after skipping the Derby and that last was the brilliant Rachel Alexandra in 2009; note he was getting a little late in both of the wins; the horse that beat him at Calder was coming off a 7th in the Fountain of Youth and then returned to press and fade badly in Tonalist's Peter Pan; the horse that ran second in the Tampa finale has been crushed since and is coming off a troubled 17th in the Kentucky Derby; he does have positional speed and that should help him get first run on the stone-cold closers; this colt's best asset could be his ability to relax and kick.

Bayern

Brings legit speed and has only run poorly once and that was off the 2-month layoff; he was game in the last race but the stewards got involved; this runner would have been highly regarded in the California's Chrome San Felipe but he had a setback with a foot bruise but showed up in the Arkansas Derby to run a well-beaten third; the blood is there as his sire won the Grade 1 Suburban at the Kentucky Derby distance with a 103 Beyer; dam was unraced and both of his siblings won routing; speed has been his game but Baffert takes off the blinks in the hopes that this racer will be in a tracking mode; the May 5 move was solid and in the drill last Monday he worked outside of Graded stakes winner Drill; respect.

Ria Antonia

Filly has only finished in front once and the place in that maiden breaker has lost twice in maiden claiming land since; runners don t want to be too far out of it early in this race; the half-mile leader has been in the exacta in this fixture in 4 of the last 5 years; she trained forwardly going into the Oaks last time but just never fired; she has a shot not to be intimidated by males as she graduated against the boys; the place horse in that race is 0 for 2 since; blinks off today just like they were for maiden breaker; has to run the race of her life.

Kid Cruz

Colt seems to be improving by the hour; the win over the Pimlico surface can't hurt; he did only beat 5 last time and they were the same group he handled in March; the way he has extended in the last pair suggests he will adore this distance; he has only run one poor race in his career and that was on the turf; with an expected legit pace, he should be making a valid impact down the lane; he has closed into very moderate pace scenarios in his last pair and should get legit splits to tackle today; reformed claimer will be rolling late if at all.

Social Inclusion

He seems to have taken to the surface if the drill last Monday is any indication; showed talent from the beginning and the smasher over Honor Code was the coming out party; note Honor Code was over 17 lengths in front of the third finisher, who also was 17 ahead of the next rival; game in the Wood, he was set to run at Gulfstream Kentucky Derby day but scratched because of a bruised hoof; this runner is very intriguing; in the Wood, he set a legit pace but had nothing left at crunch time; final time on March 12 set the track record; as far as the pedigree is concerned, stamina should be there as his sire won Grade 1 races routing and was second in Mine That Bird's Kentucky Derby in 2009; expect huge effort from this up and comer.

Pablo Del Monte

Soph has lost ground late in both of his dirt efforts; pushed along in last and he was well clear; Ward has tightened the screws and runner has trained fast for this; he has to prove he can handle the dirt; sire could run all day, dam, also trained by Ward, was sprint only; this is her first to run; could see this charge forcing the issue, not sure he'll be around late.

Ride On Curlin

One of the few that will try Chrome again; took a left turn out of the gate last time and paid the price; he was still able to make up ground late; could have sulked when he was bumped early and hung wide in the Oaklawn finale but he still tried; he ran into a horse that was putting in a solid performance that day and Danza proved it was no fluke with the Derby 3rd; only beaten a length in the Rebel and over the last 10 years 5 exited that race to win here in Baltimore; this racer must prove he can win something other than a sprint; on a positive note his 2-time Horse of the Year sire earned over $6.6 million routing and the lone full sister to graduate was 2nd twice routing, beaten only a nose once at 8 and a half furlongs; improvement expected. - Brian Mulligan

Race 13

Troubled Waters

Fair half-mile breezes of late; his sire won multiple G1 stakes and 3.07 million; offspring of Giant's Causeway have scored in 73 out of 683 debuts; the dam won 6 of 15 and 322K; among the winning siblings is 377K earner Silver Edition.

Sir Sidney

On the shelf a long time after a failed turf campaign as a sophomore; weekly intervals to the workout regimen are an encouraging sign and the new trainer has a solid record with new acquisitions; can awaken with the surface switch.

Larry Le Roi

Pressed a soft pace in his maiden voyage of 15 days ago; his sire won the Preakness and 2.05 million overall; the dam won 1 of 15 attempts and 45K; this is her only foal to make it to the starting gate.

My Son Ernie

Brave in that first attempt last month and there are changes in both equipment and trainer; the gelding's sire won 9 of 23 and 442K while the dam won 6 of 63 and 83K; among the winning sibs is 46K bankroller Pennie My Love.

Loren's Rock

Made up a ton of ground in his initial try; his sire won multiple G1s and 1.87 million; the mom won 13 of 46 and 652K; among the winning siblings is 77K earner Neat Package; can return instant dividends for the new connections if able to break alertly.

Take This

Very fine a.m. breeze to note on 5/6; his sire won 9 of 14 and 725K (progeny of Broken Vow have won 70 out of 627 debuts); the dam won 7 of 22 and 309K; among the winning siblings is 45K earner Ifrit.

Negrito

Two respectable efforts thus far and this month's work tab is superior; his sire won a G1 and 424K while the dam won 2 of 26 and 48K: winning siblings include 159K earner Dynawhite; complete solid coupling for trainer Tullock.

Nevsky

Comeback race over the turf last month was excellent where he just missed the place; the colt's sire won a G1 and 239K while the dam won 1 of 6 tries and 25K; winning siblings include 484K earner Finnegans Wake.

Victor Newman

Descendants of Songandaprayer, a G1 winner who garnered 380K, have scored in 63 out of 610 debut ventures; the dam won 2 of 4 and 23K; this is her only foal to make it to the races; consistent work tab on view.

Fara's Kid

Adds blinkers after coming up empty behind some of these same foes a month ago; his sire won multiple G1s and 3.24 million; the dam won 6 of 14 and 381K; among the winning siblings is 99K earner Wild for Love. - Jim Kachulis