Santa Anita: DRF Plus handicapping report for February 21, 2014

Race 1

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Race 2

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Race 3

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Race 4

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Race 5

Spot Play

While INCLINE VILLAGE is the horse to beat, second-time starter SURFER MOON (#5, 6-1) might be the horse to bet. He had worked well into his debut, but faltered. Maidens trained by Ron Ellis typically improve. -Brad Free

Vulnerable Favorite

INCLINE VILLAGE (#2, 9-5) set the pace routing under pressure here Jan. 16 and faded to 6th. He’s back sprinting, though, and his 2 best efforts came in turf sprints at BHP (3rd, 2nd) so this may be the game he prefers. Even so, you’re getting a depressed price because of that proven turf sprint form and note, too, both races came across town – he’s new to the hillside and just because you handle one of the SoCal grass courses doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily handle another. -Michael Hammersly

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Race 6

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Race 7

Spot Play

MERINGUE PIE (#2, 9-2) set the pace before weakening to 4th at this level here Jan. 3 but that was going 1 1/8 miles. He cuts back to a mile today, which has to help. Yes, his form hasn’t been so hot since Spawr claimed him last summer but his speed is in tact, he boasts 2 nice recent works and Spawr goes to one of his power moves: blinkers on for the first time (4 for last 8, 50%). The freshening helps and maybe the addition of blinkers can keep him focused for furlongs 7 and 8. And those last few running lines should help keep your price buoyed. -Michael Hammersly

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Race 8

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