Runhappy Hopeful might clinch trainer title for Pletcher or Brown

SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. – Todd Pletcher, a 13-time leading trainer at Saratoga, led Chad Brown, winner of three of the last four meets, by one win, 27-26, heading into the final four days of the Saratoga meet.

It’s conceivable the battle for leading trainer could come down to Monday’s Grade 1 Runhappy Hopeful, where Pletcher will send out Mutasaabeq and Brown saddles Reinvestment Risk. Those two were among the most impressive maiden winners at the meet.

Reinvestment Risk, a son of Upstart, smoked to a 7 3/4-length victory going six furlongs here Aug. 1. He earned a 90 Beyer Speed Figure.

Mutasaabeq, a son of Into Mischief, won his debut by 4 1/2 lengths going 5 1/2 furlongs on Aug. 8. He earned an 84 Beyer.

Of course, both will have to find a way to get by Jackie’s Warrior, who is 2 for 2 including a victory in the Grade 2 Saratoga Special.

“There are some nice colts in there,” said Brown. “That’s what you’re going to get in the Hopeful most years. It’s traditionally been a strong race. We really like our horse. I think he’s a horse with a really bright future.”

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In addition to Jackie’s Warrior, Reinvestment Risk, and Mutasaabeq, the Hopeful drew Ampersand, Fearless Fly, Nutsie, and Papetu.

There will be 14 races on Monday’s closing-day card, which will begin at 11:30 a.m.

The other stakes on the program will be the $85,000 Lure Stakes, which drew a field of six including the Brown pair of Devamani and Olympico. Breaking the Rules, winner of two straight, Largent, Rose’s Vision, and Ballagh Rocks complete that field.

◗ Domestic Spending, winner of the Saratoga Derby, worked a half-mile in 48.35 seconds over the Oklahoma turf course Friday. Domestic Spending, trained by Brown, is pointing to the Grade 1, $250,000 Belmont Derby on Sept. 26.

◗ Following Monday’s closing-day card at Saratoga, the next live racing program on this circuit will be Sept. 18 at Belmont Park.