Santa Anita: Closer Looks for November 1, 2013

Race 1

Rangi (GB)

Gets back in with older while trying the hill for the first time after showing speed through quick splits on the stretchout and surface switch; maybe the cut back to this trip helps and he was ok sprinting on the lawn in England earlier in the year but even on his best a minor award looks to be his ceiling.

Cacau

Beat the rail runner to the top when stretched out last time but had nothing to offer in the lane; gray should appreciate the shorter trip and he has worked quite well in the interim for his return to a course over which he ran quick well in the spring; presence of other lick won't help matters, but the price should again be right.

Ankeny Hill

Gave a pretty good account of himself first time down the hill and those were some pretty quick splits he fought through that caused him to yield late; with 5 weeks to recover from the try he could again have a move forward in him and he does look to be the quickest of them early; one to run down.

Somethings Unusual

Fresh 5 year old gets back to the hillside course over which he didn't have much to offer second time out, but he's been accomplished since then; statebred just missed going long at this level at Del Mar before a couple of poor efforts; there is a gap in his worktab and maybe he's just using this one as a prep for the stretch back out, but he should be doing his better running late.

Love de Car

Lightly raced 4 year old was beaten chalk in his first crack down the hill when the 2 race winning streak to begin his career was broken; gelding attempted to stalk hot early splits in that one but his efforts proved futile late; expect they'll ask a little more from the bell from him here and that could pose him some trouble as the pacesetter from his last draws inside him today; has ability, but it looks as if he'll have to work hard every step in this spot.

Yankee Rebel

He was rolling late after getting a hot clip in front of him in his return to the hill and wasn't beaten much at the wire; pace players from that heat return here so he should again get fractions in front of him and maybe moving out into the course will help him today; consider.

Pirate's Pleasure

Sophomore was given more than 5 months since breaking his maiden from the Hollywood fence second time out and now he'll try winners in the return run; he did begin his career over the course and the presence of other speed means he should be able to find a tracking spot with the move off the rail in her return; price warrants him a look.

Pure Loyalty

Tries older for the initial time after being given a couple of months off following the G2 Del Mar Derby fade; sophomore sprinted ok earlier in his career and his work earlier in the week suggests he's on his toes, but this can be a tricky course to handle; nice to see Bejarano take interest and the presence of pace should aid his kick.

He's Had Enough

Offered some promise in the near miss to Shanghai Bobby in the Breeders Cup Juvenile on the main track last yar, but hasn't been much of a threat since at several different venues; gray wasn't beaten much in his lone turf spin over the course as a baby and he has been working well for his first start in 7 months; it will be his first start down the hill, but he did break his maiden sprinting and she should like the setup.

Kochees

He's only run a few times and did look pretty good breaking his maiden first out down this hill; colt has been away from the races for 8 months and he'll be tackling older for the initial time here, but his lone poor race came against G2 dirt routers and he has already proven he can fire off drills; giving him the nod to return running and post the upset.

U S Citizen

Just missed running them down when turned back in his first start down the hill; 4 year old found the winner's circle immediately in his career debut last year, but he has had his chances since and settled for minor awards; still, he gets pace in front of him here and again figures to be rolling late; one to beat.

Omega Star

Outside drawn gelding tries the lawn for the initial time while turning back today; Cal bred was pretty good on the main track here earlier in the year and his sire does get 10% first surface winners from his offspring; dam was winless from 4 turf spins and her other foal to try it lost her lone attempt over it.

My Slew

AE is quick early and he ran big on the green at the level at Del Mar this summer; he does have course experuence and he's shown he doesn't need the lead to fire which could benefit him if he's able to draw in here.

Hello Frankie

AE tries better after a solid effort at this trip a couple of weeks back; maybe he's better second time over the course, but he'll need to be in order to get in the mix for a share of this one; prefer others if he goes.

Race 2

Gab Power

A stone cold closer, he should benefit by the sharp pace that is projected in this event; reverts to Talamo who was aboard for that heartbreaker 3 races back and should be flying at the finish today if all pure speeds remain in attendance and do battle; worth some backing.

Got Even

Makes his belated 2013 debut but has a perfect in-the-money record at this course to consider; note effort here nearly a year ago to the day when losing a virtual match race with Basmati; shows some nice workouts of late but still faces instant pace pressure from that key rival.

Basmati

Has the luxury of setting or pressing the pace and goes back to the handling of a rider who has extensive experience on this colt; should be within striking range but cannot afford another troubled getaway which was the case in the last assignment.

Master Cip

He is up against it today since he has no experience over the course or at the distance; shows only moderate workout activity during the last month and seems out of his element; cannot recommend as a major player now.

Newfound Gold

Held on bravely in the last run but the ability to handle seven-eighths remains open to question; turned in a fair try in his sole attempt at this trip but that was against weaker company; has established quite a lifetime exacta record but still remains a puzzle in this setting.

Door's Open

Sharp in victory last month when dueling away to daylight and coasting home against a dozen opponents; he earned a personal best in that tally and seems capable of handling the extra furlong; has improved by lengths and bounds since being defeated by Raise a Secret in August.

Monument

On the shelf since a respectable showing in that December getaway race; encountered much trouble in last year's Breeders' Cup Juvenile and his returning workout pattern is definitely upbeat; still suggest a wait and see betting approach.

Kingpin Ryno

All of his victories have been on the green but he has been training steadily for this main track engagement; did run fairly well when facing some of these same opponents in early June; a square price is assured today.

Cat Burglar

Crushed his field when breaking maiden on the stretchout last month, making 2 moves in the process; he was favored in his maiden voyage in August when confronting some of today's rivals; must be respected with top-notch connections in his corner.

Raised a Secret

No match for Wild Dude in September but the early fractions of that event were intense; should appreciate the return to seven furlongs and may middle move with effectiveness at a healthy price; could prove to be the correct value play.

Drover Crazy

Enjoyed a nice outside stalking trip when graduating less than a month ago; drops 6 pounds from that tally and this outer slot should actually work in his favor again; has never attempted today's distance before but still warrants some inclusion.

Heir of Storm

Scheduled to race with blinkers for the first time; he had little chance in the latest run, a mile turf route which featured superior fractions; can land a minor share if there is a serious pace meltdown today.

Wild Dude

One of the legitimate contenders despite this extreme outpost; he encountered traffic woes in the last placing and subsequent workouts are outstanding; top-notch trainer/jockey combination is just another plus; much to like except for the short price on the board.

Race 3

California Chrome

His best races have been when he's been able to get involved early and he was taken out of his game in the Grade 1 Del Mar Futurity when he hit the gate at the start; he finished full of run and would have been right there if he didn't have to steady late; he could make a not of noise if he leaves there running; contender.

Life Is a Joy

Undefeated in three starts in Northern Cal and he was very impressive winning the one-mile Charlie Palmer Futurity so we know he can go this far; this is obviously a much-tougher spot but both of his siblings are stakes-place and earned over $100K so there could be plenty of upside potential here; it is also encouraging to see Rosario accept the call; playable.

Electric Eddie

He's still a maiden and he'll need to improve substantially to make an impact here; at least he's had a race at the distance but the horse that easily handled him is also in this field; dam won a single sprint and earned $25K; this is her first foal; passing.

Gangnam Guy

He broke okay but didn't show his good speed in a two-turn sprint in Pomona and like a lot of horses he had a bit of trouble handling the first turn; he almost took them the whole way in the I'm Smokin but he is going to have other speed to deal with here; dam won going this distance on turf; only sib to win won going short; prefer others.

Tribal Mystic

This seems like a tough spot for a horse that broke his maiden for $32K at Pomona and he didn't make an impact when he tried $40K starter horses in his only start at this track; both sibs are winners the best being $153K stakes placed Distant Image who won going long on turf; passing

Sir Barclay

He improved quite a bit in his first start on dirt but the 57 Beyer Speed Figure he earned for his win over $50K Cal-bred maidens isn't going to scare anyone; he did run like he'll appreciate the added distance, though; and one of his three sibs, all winners, won going long; nonetheless, others look more attractive.

Tamarando

He looked good winning the Del Mar Futurity and then was left with too much to do when he got away poorly in the Grade 1 Front Runner in his first try going around two turns; expect him to move forward with the experience behind him and there should be an honest enough pace to set him up; three sibs, two stakes winners and the other is stakes placed; the pick.

Cinmars Dance

Like the way he improved substantially when he went this far in his second start and he is certainly eligible to take another step forward in his second route attempt; his dam won a couple of races and earned $32K; both sibs are winners the best being $67K sprint winner Depth; maybe for the exotics but that's about it.

Better Bet

He beat Tamarando going 5 1/2 furlongs at Del Mar but he's regressed since then while Tamarando has improved substantially; blinkers went on when he stretched out for the first time in the Front Runner and surprisingly he didn't show his usual speed; he also drew a tough post so we're going to pass.

Race 4

Smoove It

Has not raced past 6F during career; sire's only dirt route was a 9th-place in the G1 Donn; dam won 1-of-3 dirt routes; latest fade would not give you the impression that she wants to go this far; may be able to take these a long way up top; know her early but unsure about late.

Cal Gal

1st time on dirt and racing beyond 6.5F; sire took the 9F-G1-Wood Memorial; dam's only dirt route was a 4th-place finish in a GP-MSW race; sure looked like turf was in her future off latest-fresh upset score; has been working on SA dirt like she will love it.

Rovenna

Faded in latest but returns to dirt the surface of her debut win defeating the show runner who Beyered 49 in a next-out CRC-MSW win; sire went 1-for-4 in turf Miles but never raced beyond 6F on dirt during his career; dam finished 8th in her only dirt route a 400K stakes.

Meinertzhageni

48 days since pulled up in her 1st dirt race; the SA workouts suggest that she is ready to fire her best again noting the debut career-best Beyer vs. the winner who Beyered 87 to make is 2-for-2 in a next-out 150K-DMR stakes win; sire won 2 dirt-routes in alw. races;dam went 0-for-4 in dirt routes.

Time for Angie

Away since the career-low Beyer facing this same group; the worktab for this is not very enticing; her 3-back SR dirt race was a good one when rallying well; sire went 0-for-1 in dirt routes; dam was unraced; would be a complete surprise.

Harlington's Rose

2nd-time Long is often an improvement race; was primed for this in Grade 1 company; reunites with the jockey of his stakes-placed career-best Beyer noting Maldonado wins 42% for this barn at SA since 2012; hopes to sit just off Smoove It before getting 1st run on the closers.

Whatsallthedrama

Career-low Beyer for latest 1st time on SA dirt when seemingly screaming out for more distance and gets it here; sire was a Grade 2-turfer at 1M and an eighth but his only dirt race was 6F; dam finished 2nd in her only mile race on synthetic; keeps the SA-35%-win rider for the trainer.

Stole a Kiss

Meinertzhageni rematch off the sprint win; the 2-back winner is now 2-for-2 (next-out 87 Beyer); keeps rider Talamo who seemingly had other options; sire was a G2-turf Miler; full to 334K Quissiana who never raced past 7F; the maiden breaker where she broke next to last then rallied home a sharp winner giving the impression that added distances would not be an issue.

Moving Desert

2-back is a field-best Beyer at much shorter; she has been working well for the dirt debut; rider of last 2 sides with Stole a Kiss for this; receives a positive 2-pound swing in the weights from the-length loss to Whatsallthedrama; sire's a G3-SW going long on synthetic; dam won 1-of-2 dirt routes.

Swiss Lake Yodeler

Shoots high off the starter-allowance loss on dirt where she pressed the pace; figures to break sharply here and be a pace presence; defeated the debut runner-up finisher who Beyered 34 in her next-out win then repeated in a 32K claimer with a 58; the workout for this was not too enticing but keeps the rider from last who yields 28% winners for the barn since 2012; is by a G1-dirt route sire; dam's lone race was at 5F.

Race 5

Irish Surf

Back with 3-year-olds after trying older horses in his first try with stakes horses and the horse that won the race is a multiple Grade 1 winner in South America who has won two of his three starts in North America and was favored in the Arlington Million; this guy fits better her, ran well in both of his starts at the distance; and might be able to work his way into the exotics at what should be a decent price.

Charming Kitten

He's never been worse than third in any of his races on the lawn and he came within a head of winning the Grade 2 Virginia Derby going this disatnce; didn't see any obvious excuses when he couldn't keep up to Kid Dreams in the Hawthorne Derby but he might not have cared the soft turf; it will be firm here and he looks like a serious contender with Velazquez taking over; big shot in a wide-open race.

Den's Legacy

No win this year but he was right there in his last two at Del Mar and with his good tactical speed he should get a nice trip sitting just off suspect speed; hard not to like his consistency but he wasn't going making any headway when he had to steady in the slower division of the Del Mar Derby and not sure he really wants to go this far; prefer others.

Dice Flavor

He took full advantage of the hot pace in the Grade 2 La Jolla but then threw in a very dull race when he was sent off as the lukewarm favorite in the slower division of the Del Mar Derby; he may have lost interest after fighting with Gomez early while they were walking up front; no surprise if he rebounds with a better effort here;

Rookie Sensation

He was pretty sensational in his latest win as he got off to a slow start and made up a lot of ground to win going away; this is obviously a big step up in his first try in a stakes but he's a half-brother to a couple of graded stakes winners so there could be plenty of upside potential; don't sell short.

Dry Summer

First from Mullins will be adding blinkers and Rosario so there could be some improvement off his last couple; he is a stakes winner on turf but he does seem just a cut below some of the ones he is facing here and every time he's tried graded company he's come up empty; passing.

Kid Dreams

He couldn't have been more impressive winning the Hawthorne Derby and a similar effort would win this; he may have been aided by the soft conditions, though; then again it is possible he is just peaking right now; he ran a solid race in the Del Mar Derby and like the rest of the field wasn't able to catch Ethical Dance who set a very slow pace; his new rider has won big races here and certainly knows his way around the course; contender.

Avare

Looks like the one they will have to catch and he is coming into this off back-to-back wins; nonetheless, his latest was going around three turns in Pomona and he was all out to win a $50K optional race in his previous race at Golden Gate; looks like he's overmatched here; passing.

Procurement

He is a winner at the distance on this course and he could be ready for a big effort after a decent effort coming down the hill in a minor stakes races Oct. 20; he has tactical speed but didn't get to use it when he was squeezed back at the start of the faster division of the Del Mar Derby and he could get a nice trip here with a better start; contention runs deep and he could make some noise at what should be a nice price.

Gervinho

It looked like he was full of run when he was stuck on the rail behind horses on the stretch turn in the quicker version of the Del Mar Derby and he finished with a lot of energy when he finally got clear mid stretch; while he was waiting Gabriel Charles was making his winning move; can see him turning the tables with a clean trip; the sharp work here Oct. 26 adds to his appeal; the pick.

Rising Legend (GB)

Nice win over Gabriel Charles in the Oceanside when he was coming off a long layoff and we can obviously toss his race in the Del Mar Derby because his saddle slipped; Nakatani rides this course as well as anyone and this guy is a half to Grade 3 winner Humouresque who could run all day; interesting.

Gabriel Charles

He won a stakes race coming down the hill on the Breeders' Cup card here last year and he hasn't run a bad race since; he put on a strong move while going wide around the stretch turn in his win over Gervinho in the Del Mar Derby and with Avare in the field he should have an honest pace to work with; an obvious contender.

Outside Nashville

Horse he beat at Santa Rosa two back finished sixth in a $25K optional claiming race for Cal-breds in his next start at Del Mar and then second here in a similar race; he wasn't a serious threat to Gabriel Charles and Gervinho in the Del Mar Derby and it's hard to make a case for him here; passing.

Race 6

Old Time Hockey

G1 SW turfer draws the fence for the stretchout and surface switch after failing to offer enough late in either of his last 2 grass tries at the G2 level; though he's bred to love the footing, he's yet to run on dirt and off what he's shown of late it doesn't appear as if he'll be a true stayer at this level; gelding hasn't won a race in nearly 15 months and looks to be in tough in this spot.

Cease

Six year old hasn't been the same runner who got up for a solid third place finish behind a couple of good ones in Saratoga's G1 Woodward 14 months ago and he enters his local debut off a optional claiming sprint score in New York; he led in midstretch of this heat's renewal a couple of years back, but didn't have enough late and finished fifth; maybe the new blinkers agree with him and his most recent effort is a sign that he's rounding back into form for a barn that does great work with claimers, but this is a huge step up the class ladder while doubling the distance he tackled in that last one; demanding task ahead of him.

Commander

Speedy Canadian invader enters this off a gate to wire score in an 11 panel G3 event North of the border in which he was able to control things through moderate splits; he wasn't able to offer much in this heat's renewal last year, but he did break from an outside slot in that one and wasn't really able to strut his stuff; he draws inside the other speed here so he'll likely be able to make the top and will try to take them as far as he can go.

Ever Rider (ARG)

South American import makes his first start in over 4 months while starting for the first time outside his native Argentina; gray does own some long route scores and he worked well over the local main track earlier in the month, but the type of competition he was facing down there figures to pale in comparison to what he'll catch in here.

Suns Out Guns Out

Took a good step forward in beating much cheaper on the turn back to a mile when shades were added at Parx last month; gelding will have an extra 6 furlongs to deal with here and though the track was wet that day, he didn't seriously threaten a couple of these at a shorter trip 2 starts back; he is working well for the step back up to face this type but he'll need to find more late to prove a legitimate factor in the outcome.

Indian Jones

His connections got a nice prep for this into him from the Laurel fence last time as he was able to take way back early and reserve his energy for later in that flat mile heat; gelding earned a nice number in the 12 panel stake 2 back at Parx which certainly gave the impressive that this guy can stay a marathon trip and he certainly has been a new runner since taken over by this outfit in the spring; he'll carry a tougher impost today but in his current form he looks to be a solid contender.

London Bridge

European import makes his first start since the summer while trying both dirt and older rivals for the initial time in his stateside debut; New York bred has shown early foot in his turf marathons overseas so expect he'll again be forwardly placed here and his numbers suggest that he was certainly on the improve before being given time off, but he'll face his toughest test yet here.

Blueskiesnrainbows

Four year old was used in pace and finished off the board at odds on while prepping for this on the upstate fair circuit a few weeks back; he's got early foot and one of his better efforts this year did come at a 12 panel trip at Del Mar so the stretch back out could help; colt draws outside some of the other speed in the heat which should allow him to secure a spot within tracking range of them in here; he's been off the board just once in 7 career spins over the local main track and may prove to be the one to beat.

Pool Play

After competing in this event's showcase heat last year this 8 year old will tackle a softer spot this time; he's been off his game significantly since the near miss in Gulfstream's G3 Hal's Hope to begin the year and did come up short late in the 12 panel stake back East a couple of months ago so don't know that he's going to move forward all that much at this longer trip; he is a G1 winner with a score at today's distance and he did chase a pretty good one last time, but in his current form it's tough to see him getting a piece of this one.

Worldly

Makes his first start over the local main track while coming off a career best Beyer effort behind last year's Breeders Cup Classic winner; he enters this in pretty good form but he's settled for a lot of minor awards and it's been a long time since he's seen the winner's circle; as it is for most of these, the trip is a concern, but he's worth considering as an exotics use.

Race 7

All Cash

He has plenty of turf in his pedigree, but his best effort was in his latest start over the synthetic surface at Keeneland, and he finished behind three of today's rivals in that race; he's really going to need to step it up over what he's shown in his two turf attempts if he's to contend.

Giovanni Boldini

His only loss from three starts racing in Ireland was in a G1 and the winner of that race, Toormore, earned a 121 Racing Post Rating for that effort and is unbeaten from three starts; 675k purchase is by a top turf sire in War Front, and he appears to be a very talented performer; note that Morre piloted Wilshire Boulevard in his last two starts.

Got Shades

This is an outfit that primarily races in Texas and Louisiana, and have to give them credit for shipping this colt west in early October to record a stakes placing; that said, he did benefit from a favorable early pace scenario that day, and he finds himself facing a much tougher assignment this time around; respect the presence of the hot-riding Stevens, but going to look toward others.

Outstrip (GB)

He's run well against strong competition racing overseas and the winner of his latest start is a very talented looking son of War Front from the barn of Aiden O'Brien; the next time he runs a bad race will be the first time, and viewing him as being one of the more serious looking imports; this is the first foal out of Asi Siempre who was a G1 winner while winning 7 of 21 starts for 953k, including 3 of 8 North American turf starts for 264k.

Bobby's Kitten

He was backed like a good thing in his career debut, and even though he wasn't able to get the job done that day, he's followed that race up with a couple of very strong winning performances, and he was particularly impressive in earning a G3 score at Belmont Park in his latest outing; Ramsey-owned colt hails from one of the top turf barns in America and Castellano is back aboard.

Home School (IRE)

He certainly hasn't run poorly in his first two starts in America, but he's been beaten by a number of these already, including Wilshire Boulevard four starts back in Ireland; he's going to have to be ready to take his game to another level to get the better of this tough field.

Aotearoa

Don't like to be too critical of a lightly raced horse after a winning turf debut, but this Cal-bred gelding did benefit from an ideal setup and a terrific ride by Nakatani in getting the job done in his latest outing; on the positive side, that was still an encouraging performance for his first turf start, and his first start with Lasix, and he still has every reason to have his best races in front of him.

Bon Accord

He surprised a field in the Calder Dash two races ago, and a lot of the credit for that win goes to Rios who gave this colt a fine ride that day, and he followed that performance up with a strong third-place finish in a G3 at Keeneland; note that he chased a couple of today's rivals to the finish at Kee in his latest outing, and that was a really nice effort when considering that it was his first start routing; it doesn't hurt him to have Rosario at the controls.

Wilshire Boulevard (IRE)

Judging from his Racing Post Rating's, he's been getting better and better with each passing start, and he's a 1/2 to G1 winner overseas, Zoffany (5-13, 523k); perhaps his only performance that might be rated less than good was the one time he tried blinkers; he has the look of another strong contender signed on for the O'Brien barn.

Ontology

Obviously he's going to need to dial it up along the Beyer Speed Figure scale to prove to be the one in this spot, but he was a strong runner-up finisher in his one turf attempt behind a promising looking turfer in Diamond Bachelor; like the idea of him giving turf another try, but have to wonder if this just isn't a little too tough for him at this point in time.

Poker Player

Along with Bobby's Kitten, he looks like one of the stronger American options to consider in here, and all three of his races are worth watching before making any final decisions on him; despite finishing fourth in his career debut, he was dragging his rider to the finish, and he was very green when producing a big late run to get the job done at second asking; in his latest start at Keeneland, a race that saw him beat a few of today's rivals, he didn't just get up, he rolled past the leaders through the final 16th.

Shamshon (IRE)

Have to be at least mildly concerned when seeing that he's making his first start beyond six furlongs today, but he ran to his backing with a couple of sharp winning performances to begin his career, and even though he was a beaten favorite in a G2 in his latest start, he was sent to post as the favorite.

Bashart

He hasn't run a bad race to date and he was at his best in his most recent turf start in winning a G2 event at Saratoga two starts back; in his latest outing, a troubled run over the synthetic surface at Keeneland, Velazquez had to stand up in the irons around the first turn before being forced wide approaching the stretch; he clearly commands a good deal of respect, even with an outside post in play.

Race 8

Taptowne

Personal best Beyer was achieved at a mile two races back when a game second to Pants On Fire but that was around one-turn; the grey has extensive two-turn experience but none at the G1 level; although the latest workout at his Churchill headquarters was superior, he may have a difficult time earning the top award here.

Golden Ticket

Exits an extremely useful comeback race, his first over this course, where he launched a strong bid approaching the stretch only to fade in the last furlong; prefers distances longer than this, however, and needs a perfectly timed middle move; has scored under 126 pounds before when earning a split-decision with Alpha in last year's G1 Travers.

Hymn Book

A consistent performer regardless of the distance or surface, he made 2 moves in defeat in the G2 Kelso at Belmont and was finishing strong at the end; that was his initial try with blinkers, an important educational run; that addition should enable him to get into the race sooner, an important weapon here.

Brujo de Olleros (BRZ)

The selection; an outstanding performer in South America early in his career, he has slowly but surely matured since arriving to the U.S.A. yet may fly under the betting radar today; he was particular impressive when narrowly losing a sprint against 7-furlong specialists at Parx; thereafter, he received a confidence builder at Delaware before turning in a brave performance behind Graydar, who would have likely been the favorite in today's affair.

Fed Biz

Do not use his failure in the G1 Metropolitan as a barometer; he is a proven miler with a strong local slate; more intriguing is the workout regimen during the break (his latest a.m. move at five-eighths was his best by far during that period); failed in the 2012 edition of this race but did not have the smoothest of trips and was only 5 to 1 in that test.

Broadway Empire

Lightly-raced in comparison to these powerhouses, the sophomore has upgraded dramatically since the removal of blinkers; the fact remains, however, he has not gone past the G3 level and this appears far too demanding a task; solid work tab during the last month does not appear enough to overcome this exceptionally steep class hike.

Alpha

Retreated at the midway point when setting way too fast a pace in the G1 Jockey Club Gold Cup at Belmont; his only start at this oval was in last season's Breeders' Cup Classic; the return to a mile should suit and a change of riding tactics seems in order.

Holy Lute

Yet to win a graded stakes, he will likely go to post as one of the rank outsiders in the wagering this afternoon; does sport some superb workouts over the course, however; son of sprint champion Midnight Lute has done well since with the extension in distance, but even the presence of Mike Smith (who is enjoying a banner year) seems insufficient.

Centralinteligence

Received a classic tune-up in a sprint a month ago where he encountered a bumpy beginning; has made only one lifetime attempt at a route, however, and despite breaking through the 100 Beyer plateau 4 times in his career, seems at a disadvantage against proven milers; upbeat half-mile drill on 10/14 may not matter.

Verrazano

After winning the G3 Pegasus at Monmouth on a golden rail, many handicappers were against his chances in the G1 Haskell; he trounced that field with authority, however, earning his top number; disappointed in this summer's Travers when losing important tactical position early in the race; he is tons better than that performance implies and can rebound under Hall of Fame rider who has been aboard this colt since day one.

Pants On Fire

Jockey Lopez seems to have a magic touch as far as this runner is concerned; excellent work tab during the last six weeks is on view; he was game to defeat the ultra-consistent Hymn Book back in July and has performed well in the past following freshenings of 2 months or so; can prove to be the right value play.

Goldencents

He was part of the suicidal pace in this year's Kentucky Derby; his sprint form during the last few months shows steady progression though and he appears dangerous on the stretchout now; best route effort of his career was when scoring in G1 Santa Anita Derby, surviving pace pressure for a good part of the running; exacta recommendation.

Easter Gift

Deceptive effort when losing to some of these foes in New York; one of several in this field with no G1 success to his name, he will be burdened with the extreme outpost if breaking in from AE list; will have difficult obtaining any type of ideal stalking position and has shouldered more than 120 pounds only once; cards seem stacked against him.

Race 9

Nesso

Purchased off the debut victory when defeating the runner-up finisher who Beyered 65 in her next-out CRC-16K-maiden claiming graduation; displayed versatility racing from off the pace when she was on the lead in 1st pair; assume she will break fast here and sit just off the speed; main knock is she was getting a weight concession from the winner of last pair and must test that one at equal weights for this.

Al Thakhira (GB)

Perfect filly raced close to the lead in both wins with the added furlong here the biggest concern; was favored in the career debut so from day one that was a lot of promise then she delivered a sharp-Group 2 score just 25 days later when dominating the field; figures to be a major player in the early stages.

Colonel Joan

Was getting 4 pounds from Clenor in last now they race at equal weights; late runner seeks her 1st victory while style suggests she will likely be best at longer distances than 1 Mile; the barn nails 2-year-old winners at just a 6% clip since 2012 and while not impossible backing a maiden vs. this kind is a difficult assignment.

Kitten Kaboodle

New trainer sent her to face Grade 3 competition then she drew off like a good thing to graduate; today is her shortest-distance test ever but has very-good tactical speed so the cutback is not likely to affect her very much; defeated the 2-back show runner who Beyered 70 in a next-out BEL-MSW win; she beat the debut show runner who graduated next out in a SAR-MSW event with a 74 speed figure.

Granny Mc's Kitten

Today marks her shortest-distance test ever perhaps 1 Mile will work out better after seeing her outfinished in last; full to G1-turfer Kitten's Dumplings projects to race midpack; needs a well-timed ride to make an impact; the main concern is she did not improve her Beyer speed figure for latest when unable to overcome the 10-post wide trip.

Vorda (FR)

1st time racing past 6F; is by a Group 1 sire who won 2-of-6 but went 0-for-3 in 1-Mile races; grandsire was 1992-'93 Breeders' Cup Mile winner; she is out of an unraced dam; clearly racing style suggests there will not be any issues stretching out and may even prosper at today's Mile.

Street Sailing

Shoots high off the grass-debut win which clearly was an eye-catching victory but would have to up her a game to a brand-new level against a tough group; her 3-back maiden win looks better since the runner-up finisher Beyered 78 in a next-out PID-MSW win; sharp-KEE synthetic breeze for this.

Chriselliam (IRE)

Shocked Group 1 competition with a field-best Racing Post 114 Rating; clearly has been a different runner since stretched out to today's Mile distance; began career with a dull effort but then came up big to defeat males then just missed against male counerparts 2-back; hopes to save whatever ground possible then make 1-big late run.

Dancing House

Began career with a promising-dirt win; her dam is a multiple G1-grasser; could not get up at shorter in last which is a major issue cutting back in distance; the grass debut was a better Beyer but have her ranked a notch below the top contenders.

Clenor (IRE)

Showed potential in Ireland but picked up her game dramatically when bet hard in the states stretched out to 1 Mile with improving Beyer speed figures; late runner has found a way to rally from far back but is likely to encounter a lot more traffic in a bigger field today; sharp-SA turf workout suggests she is ready for another big try.

Ready to Act

Seemed well on her way to her 2nd straight win to commence career stalking the pace nicely before taking over but when struck right handed by the rider she made a left-hand turn dropping the jockey; has been working steadily off the 48-day absence and while clearly talent here she has to prove she can handle intense handling in deep stretch.

Testa Rossi (FR)

Grillo was her 4th in a row scoring the last-to-1st win with a field-best Beyer speed figure attached 1st Lasix; can she can get up in time cutting back while right back in 26 days off latest with 91 days between races for last?; obviously there is plenty of talent here and is clearly the one they will have to hold off late.

Sky Painter

Defeated by Testa Rossi in latest and today will hope to turn the tables with a negative 2-pound weight swing; the good news is latest Beyer is a field-best number so the quality of latest G3 event is there; promising-debut overcoming a troubled-gate break to win over the runner-up finisher who Beyered 68 in her next-out KEE-MSW win.

My Conquestadory

Defeated males in her career-debut G2-grass victory including the show finisher who Beyered 75 in his next-out WO-251K stakes victory; displayed versatility by not only winning on a new surface but rallying from far back and battling her way through traffic to remain perfect; only knock is the trainer's 10% win mark synthetic-to-turf; sired by a Breeders' Cup Mile winner.

Race 10

Street Girl

This reformed claimer will need things to break just right in order to have any outside chance of succeeding today; the horse she beat in April by a nose has won three times since, but the last was just in a $63K Calder stakes with an 87 Beyer; the show horse in the Calder Oaks in April won once, a maiden $35K claimer and has been out of the money twice since the 4/13 effort; this stone-cold closer should get a legit pace to attempt to run down with Delta and the Mandella charge posting legit splits; since 2006, every Distaff winner has had a final prep at either Anita or Belmont; will be in the picture late if at all.

Authenticity

Good things come in small packages and this 6-pack of a race is a dynamo; consistency has been mare's calling card as her only poor effort came in trouble debut; mare got away with tracking a slow pace in the Shuvee and the place horse that day cashed next out in a $100K stakes, then won right back in a $111K CD stakes with a 90 Beyer; versatility is one of her better assets, she can be placed anywhere and still fire; the drill on the 12th was 2 ticks the best and tied with the Sadler-trained winner Horizontalyspeakin, who also was 3rd beaten just over 2 in an $80K optional on 9/29; mare doesn't have to be dead last early this time, she's proven at the trip, was inching toward the winner last time, has every right to be in the thick of it.

Close Hatches

Hung wide from the marooned slot in the only poor effort in May; freshened by Mott after the facile score in the Mother Goose, she won in professional manner last time and proved she belongs as the place horse in her Gazelle victory has put 4 wins together since and must be faced once again; she also beat a pretty nice horse last time as Grade 1 winning Sweet Lulu was tasting defeat for the first time in her career; she has proven she can put wins together and if you go deep in her pedigree you ll find near $600,000 earner Xaar; could see her being the stalking component of the Mott trainees with a trip similar to the Mother Goose journey; not impossible task.

Royal Delta

This star attempts to record her third straight victory in this race; she tried the $10 million World Cup now twice but has responded after that taxing trip both times; nearly 7 clear in last and it s possible she was not tightened to the gills with this huge payday down the road; her trainer has put her through her motions in the last couple of drills and the :46.50 drill on the 12th was followed on the tab by restricted stakes winner Saint Arthur, who was timed in :47.18; Mott has owned this race the last few years and his trainees have won the last 3 runnings of this race and his student Mushka ran 2nd in 2009; figures to get first run on all except the Mandella charge, the one to deny.

Beholder

This true horse for the course is one of 9 runners in this year's Cup trying to win in consecutive years; best when sent along, but she can sit just off the pace and still cash and she proved last time she can beat older horses; she has to find a way to turn the tables on Sylmar but note this gal was bumped and acting up in that Churchill defeat; note the last 3 runnings of his race at Anita have been won wire-to-wire; the drill on the 15th was 3 ticks the best over next by a Mandella trained winner; the average drill on the 15th was 1:01 flat; 9 furlongs could be pushing the envelope; both sire, dam were sprint only but half bro Into Mischief took a Grade 1 at 8 and a half furlongs extending his winning margin a bit late; elusive proposition.

Princess of Sylmar

Educated in her Penn National debut, this gal has been sensational all year, is seeking her 5th Grade 1 win in a row and obviously is coming to this race at the top of her game; this soph beat Delta on the square last time but that rival has the benefit of winning over this Arcadia strip; the second horse in the Alabama returned to failed as a 2-5 chalk in the Grade 2 Indiana Oaks when the surface came up sloppy; supplemented for $100,000, she has won at a number of different venues so this surface seems to be within her element; with a legit pace expected, could envision her sitting about 4 lengths off the pace, saving ground, and then making the big one run; respect.