Strapping Groom has upset shot in Capossela

OZONE PARK, N.Y. - While it's odd to see a confirmed Philadelphia Phillies fan such as John Servis training for New York Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, it would not be a surprise if the two combined to win Saturday's $65,000 Fred "Cappy" Capossela Stakes at Aqueduct with Strapping Groom.

Strapping Groom, a 3-year-old son of Johannesburg, is coming off a first-level allowance win at Philadelphia Park, in what Servis said was the colt's best race.

"The last race he started to put it all together and seems to be going forward," Servis said. "He was all over the racetrack through the lane, but the last 40 yards he started to inch away. Since then he's figured it out and has gone forward."

Servis said his biggest concern is saddling the horse, "because he can be a little bit of a handful in the paddock."

Servis also entered Crisis in Confidence, but had not decided if he will run.

Westover Wildcat is the horse to beat from the rail for trainer Tony Dutrow. He ships up from south Florida after finishing third in the Spectacular Bid Stakes at Gulfstream on Jan. 9.

Golden Ghost, who finished second to Westover Wildcat in an overnight stakes at Belmont in the October, makes his 3-year-old debut in this spot for trainer Michael Gorham.

Liston, bothered by a loose horse when making his 3-year-old debut, completes the field.