Santa Anita: DRF Plus handicapping report for February 27, 2014

Race 1

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Race 2

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A contested pace could compromise favorites PRAY HARD and WELL MEASURED, and set up a potential off-the-pace upset by PATRIOTS RULE (#4, 9-2). He won a “live” maiden race last out (two next-out winners) and is the field’s best closer. -Brad Free

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Race 3

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This is “mud-only” pedigree play if the race is moved off grass and run on wet main track. Otherwise, pass. Unplaced six starts, PYROTECHNICS (#4, 9-2) was produced by a mare that romped her first two starts at Santa Anita in 2001, in the mud. -Brad Free

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Race 4

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Race 5

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Race 6

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Race 7

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MAGIC CHANNEL (#7, 7-2) must deal with tougher after winning for $50K vs. 4yos only – today he moves up to the $75K level and faces elders. But the class hike itself is a great sign. Here you have a real sharp guy (Hollendorfer) moving this guy up 50% after a very nice win on the hillside course here Jan. 30, his first start in almost 5 months. That type of value increase speaks of confidence and tells others that if they want to claim this guy the price of poker just went up – a lot. Bejarano was up for that big win down the hill and stays with him, and from a strategic standpoint he may fall into a good trip as El Commodore, possibly with the help of American Act, can ensure the type of sharp pace this guy wants. -Michael Hammersly

Vulnerable Favorite

EL COMMODORE (#4, 3-1) has been competing against considerably tougher so this drop figures to make him the favorite. That being said, they don’t give anything away out here, and after being Grade 3-placed here Dec. 28 now they’re willing to part with him for $75K. Speed is his main weapon but rival American Act (Batti Man figures to come out if this stays on turf) isn't exactly slow early so 'COMMODORE may not get a cozy, easy lead. -Michael Hammersly

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Race 8

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