Vincero looks to end skid in optional claimer

Vincero has had the dubious distinction of being a beaten favorite in each of his last four starts. On Friday, he’ll try to avoid adding to that ignominious streak when he undoubtedly will be the public’s choice once again in the featured eighth event, an optional $12,500 claimer restricted to Florida-breds at one mile.

Vincero went postward at odds of 7-5 at this same level here four weeks earlier and chased the speedy Jalen Journey from the outset before finishing second, 4 1/2 lengths behind the winner. He was easily best of the rest, however, holding a comfortable 3 1/2-length advantage over third-place finisher Transistor.

Vincero was back under the tutelage of Saffie Joseph Jr. in his most recent start after having raced for Jorge Navarro in his previous three start. The 4-year-old son of Wrote was claimed from Frank Calabrese and Joseph for $25,000 out of a win at Gulfstream Park West in late November by Isla Stables, whose colors he’ll still compete under Friday.

Vincero will stretch out to a mile for the first time since winning for a $25,000 tag at Gulfstream West in early November. That race was decided around two turns, unlike the one turn he’ll negotiate Friday with the main event starting out of the mile chute.

The stretch-running Transistor will try Vincero again Friday, but figures to be at a major disadvantage with the favorite likely to be loose on an easy lead from the rail. Transistor has won a pair of high-level starter-allowance races since being turned over to trainer Stanley Gold earlier this winter, with both of those victories under jockey Jeffrey Sanchez, who’ll take the reins again Friday.

Piloting was reclaimed by owner-trainer Steve Klesaris for $10,000 after having lost the 8-year-old veteran at the claim box for $16,000 earlier this winter. Piloting showed some of his old speed to set the pace before succumbing to the red-hot Dizzy Gillespie when dropping in company and returning to the main track March 24.

Completing the lineup are Winking At Thedude, who seems overmatched against a field of more experienced and accomplished rivals, He’s Smokin Hot, the only 3-year-old in the group; and Big Boy Bruno. He’s Smokin Hot will race in blinkers for the first time.