Santa Anita: DRF Plus handicapping report for January 17, 2014

Race 1

Vulnerable Favorite

FRANDONTJUDGE (#3, 6-5) sure looked good winning at BHP last month, earning her status as the ML favorite here. That being said, the Beyer didn’t come back any great shakes (51) so she has no speed-figure edge against this bunch. Also, considering she ran so well that day, why then does Sadler move her back in for a tag, back to the price he claimed her for two races ago? Her two wins came when she had the lead going down the backstretch but there’s ample other speed in here to her right so what if she can’t make the lead early, hmmmm? -Michael Hammersly

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Race 2

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Race 3

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Race 4

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Race 5

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Race 6

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Race 7

Spot Play

The knock on co-favorites AMBITIOUS BREW and KOCHEES is price. Meanwhile, SHEER TALENT (#4, 10-1) looms an upset candidate. His comeback was his first in more than a year; he worked fast since. He should improve second start back. -Brad Free

Spot Play

RANGI (#1, 4-1) may be in a tad deep against this caliber but there’s still cause for optimism. Baltas saw fit to plunk down $50K to claim at BHP Dec. 13 when the horse stayed on well to be a very nice 2nd. The horse he chased (Ankeny Hill) promptly came right back to win. That may be a sign this 4yo gelding has acclimated to his new surroundings and it’s noteworthy that Baltas brings him back in a spot where he can’t lose him via another claim. The presence of some talented foes may make things tough, but it keeps his price palatable and even if he doesn’t win, they have exacta wagering, right? -Michael Hammersly

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Race 8

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