Saturday 6/15/24 Free Plays / Trends / Betting Info / Etc

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-13-2024, 07:41 AM

Race of the Week: Gulfstream's Powder Break | Saturday, 6/15

June 12, 2024 | By Jeremy Plonk
The Lead:
With a mandatory payout in the Rainbow 6 set for Saturday, additional eyes will be on Gulfstream Park racing. Part of that sequence will be the featured Race 9 Powder Break Stakes. The turf mile lured a field of 9, including a pair from a barn that's been dominant in this race in recent years.

Field Depth:
Grade 3 winner ANGEL NADESHIKO has the field's signature victory on her resume. WIDE WEST is a listed stakes winner, while listed stakes-placed performers include NAPA CANDY, TOWSER and CHICK'S SHADOW. Give the slight class edge to ANGEL NADESHIKO in terms of overall strength of schedule.

Pace:
The outside pair should cook from posts 8 and 9 with SWOONATRA and WIDE WEST. ANGEL NADESHIKO has shown some early foot, but also is pace versatile. This should be an above-average early pace for a turf mile and give finishers a chance if they fire their best shot.

Our Eyes:
Here are my horse-by-horse notes.

#1-FRIENDLYPERSUASION: Kentucky-based Arrogate filly changes venues and trainers from Michael McCarthy to Heather Smullen. Hasn't shown much since 2-year-old season in 2022 and only turf try was a dud.

#2-NAPA CANDY: Another Kentucky transfer from Victoria Oliver to Joe Orseno, she was fourth at Ellis in her only turf attempt from 19 lifetime starts. She's arguably kept the strongest company of these fillies, albeit on dirt. A bit flat around 2 turns in limited, previous tries.

#3-TOWSER: Trainer Saffie Joseph has won this Powder Break Stakes twice in the last 3 years and was runner-up in the other. His barn has hit 36% winners at Gulfstream since May 1 and this mare exits a solid second in stakes company. Last-out winner Ocean Club was a Grade 2-placed favorite, so no shame in her runner-up by a length to that one.

#4-JAN'S GIRL: Arguably a tad better on synthetic than turf, but surface and pace versatility are her strengths. Decent return try when fourth last out and note she got really good this time of year last season, winning 3 straight.

#5-NO VALLA: Ex-claimer makes a barn move to red-hot Carlos David outfit that's winning 27% at Gulfstream since the start of May. No Valla is hot in her own right, winning 2 straight against easier competition. Can't argue with 4: 3-0-0 local turf record or 5: 2-2-0 mark at distance. Class test.

#6-ANGEL NADESHIKO: Second of the Saffie Joseph Jr. trainees in this lineup as he looks to continue his Powder Break dominance. Newly transplanted jockey Drayden Van Dyke has been lights out for the barn at GP, going 5-for-9 in tandem. Has had her best success when able to make the lead, which could be difficult in this spot.

#7-CHICK'S SHADOW: Runner-up in this race last year at 28-1 has won just once in 13 starts over the past 2 seasons. The '23 Powder Break was moved to the Tapeta, but note she's a 3-time turf mile winner in her career. Reliable sort may find a few better.

#8-SWOONATRA: Speedster set a wicked pace last time and faded as the favorite. May not have to go quite that fast here, but will get no breather with Wide West to her outside. Her record over the course and distance is all-or-nothing, and it's difficult to envision a wire job.

#9-WIDE WEST: Turf sprinter is by the great grass miler Frankel and will finally get a chance to go around 2 turns. I'd prefer a stretch-out sprinter to be inside as the clubhouse turn comes up very fast and there's a chance these types blow the unexpected turn. Respect, even with the obvious hurdles.

Most Certain Exotics Contender:
TOWSER gets a great pace set-up and is 3-for-3 in the trifecta on turf.

Best Longshot Exotics Contender:
JAN'S GIRL returns to a promising part of the calendar in a good spot in her form cycle.

Sending it in ($100 bankroll):
$70 win TOWSER. $5 Exacta key-box TOWSER with JAN'S GIRL, WIDE WEST and NO VALLA ($30).

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:40 AM

Scott Shapiro: Santa Anita Closing Day Late Pick 4

June 15, 2024 | By 1/ST BET
Sunday is not only Father’s Day but it is Closing Day at Santa Anita Park and the final opportunity to take advantage of XpressBet and 1ST/Bet’s two-million point Late Pick 4 “Hit It & Split It” promotion. To win your share, simply register, hit Sunday’s Late Pick 4, and share that day’s two-million with just those that hit it with you at XpressBet and 1ST/Bet.

There is no doubt I will be jumping in on the sequence that starts at 7:38 eastern with a conditional claimer over the main track and concludes with a first-level allowance down the hill. You should as well.

Grade Descriptions: Grade A=Highest degree of confidence; Grade B=Solid Play. Grade C=Least preferred or pass; Grade X=probable winner but likely at odds too short to play.

Race 9:
Grade: C+
Main Ticket: 1 Carol’s Comic; 8 Pat’s Paddock Pick
Backups: 4 Picking It Up

Forecast: The pace is likely to be contentious in this six-furlong dash over the main track, which gives #1 Carol’s Comic a big shot despite a 1 for 22-record coming into Sunday. The Cal-bred stumbled badly at the start in his first try against winners on 5/27 costing him any serious chance but prior to that put forth a pair of solid efforts since dropping to the bottom at Santa Anita in early spring. With a clean break, jockey Jeremy Laprida should find a favorable mid-pack spot along the rail and find his way to the winner’s circle for the second time since late April. #8 Pat’s Paddock Pick ran huge in his first start in two months in the same race my top choice exits. Victor Espinoza will need to avoid another four-wide battle on the front end to give this colt his best chance.

#4 Picking It Up is a very tough read. The 5YO gelding has raced just once. It was a dominant wire-to-wire victory against maiden claimers at Del Mar back in the fall of 2022. If he runs back to that race, he will be tough to deny but one must wonder where he has been and why he is in for just $16k.

Race 10:
Grade: B
Main Ticket: 3 Ziti; 7 She’z the Law
Backups: 9 Kelly’s Out; 1 Highly Desirable

Forecast: #3 Ziti makes her second career start after breaking slowly and doing limited running in her six-furlong debut over the Santa Anita sod in late April. Despite the underwhelming effort in her first try, there are reasons to believe a big move forward is in store for this French-bred filly. Trainer Phil D’Amato sports strong numbers with second-time starters stretching out from a sprint to a route in maiden special weight events on the grass connecting with 10 of his last 34 for an eye-popping ROI of $3.33. Plus, she is bred on both sides to love the added ground. At 12-1, she is a must use. #7 She’z the Law is hard to toss as well, but she will be nowhere near the price. The 5-2-morning line favorite has improved significantly since trainer Mark Glatt moved her from dirt to turf. The Constitution filly failed as the favorite last out but ran well in defeat. She is the clear one to beat on paper.

#9 Kelly’s Out lacks early speed but perhaps the addition of blinkers will help get her into the race a bit earlier. She has shown some ability but will need a move forward to get to the wire first against this group. #1 Highly Desirable is a wild card. She makes her second start off the long break for Richard Baltas after a non-threatening sixth going six-furlongs in her Stateside debut in early May. The added ground and racing experience in North America should both benefit.

Race 11:
Grade: C
Main Ticket: 12 Only Alleged; 8 Villfied; 2 Too Wild to Tame; 4 Ignatowski
Backups: None

Forecast: #12 Only Alleged drops in class and moves from turf-to-dirt after an eighth-place effort on debut for veteran conditioner Dean Pederson. The 3YO gelding should move forward with the addition of blinkers and significant class relief. #8 Villified is likely to get over bet after breaking poorly and rushing up in his runner-up effort on 5/18. With a cleaner start he could be tough to beat in this one, but he was not entered ambitiously on debut after taking a long time to get to the races and then lost by nearly a pole despite finishing second. That said, this is not a strong group he encounters. #2 Too Wild to Tame debuts for trainer Hector Palma. Palma is capable with debut maiden claimers and is 4 for 14 overall over the last 30 days. #4 Ignatowski gets some much-needed class relief after a pair off the board finishes against state-bred maiden claimers to kick off his 2024 campaign. He has every right to improve.

Race 12:
Grade: B-
Main Ticket: 6 Anmer Hall; 9 Halfway Line
Backups: 4 Bolt Supremacy; 11 Father Delay

Forecast: #6 Anmer Hall moves back into the allowance ranks for the first time this year. The son of Palace Malice has found a home over the Santa Anita lawn rattling off two wins and two seconds since entering the Steve Knapp barn. He should find a favorable mid-pack spot early under Antonio Fresu and have enough left late to earn his third win of 2024. #9 Halfway Line cuts back to a sprint in his second start off the boat after a stalk and fade going a mile on 5/5. The fact he was bet down to 5-2 in a field of nine shows he was well-meant despite the ooff the board effort to kick off his 4YO campaign.

#4 Bolt Supremacy is just 1 for 12 but moves into the Richard Baltas barn for his first start of 2024. The presence of Juan Hernandez is a positive, as is the fact his lone career victory came over this course. #11 Father Delay lacks early speed, so troubled voyages are not uncommon, but he did not have a fun trip when we saw him last. The move to an outside post for the first time this year should help.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:40 AM

Jeff Siegel's What You Need to Know - Santa Anita - 6/15/24

June 15, 2024
Jeff Siegel’s Santa Anita “What You Need to Know
Saturday, June 15, 2024

Specifically designed for the rolling exotic player, Jeff Siegel’s “What You Need to Know” isolates those horses that should be included in daily doubles, pick-3s, pick-4s, pick-5s, and the pick-6.

The selections are posted at 6:00 a.m. and updated later in the morning to reflect late scratches and changes (approximately 10:30 a.m.). For additional commentary, follow us on twitter @jsiegelracing.

Grade Descriptions: Grade A=Highest degree of confidence; Grade B=Solid Play. Grade C=Least preferred or pass; Grade X=probable winner but likely at odds too short to play.

View Jeff Siegel’s Prime Plays Video

__________________________________________________ ____________________________
RACE 1: Post: 1:00 PT Grade: B
Main Ticket: 5-Moon Ice; 2-Eddie’s Last
Backups/savers: none.

Forecast: Eddie’s Last and Moon Ice finished a nose a part when second and third respectively in a similar state-bred first level allowance affair down the Hillside Course last month and they meet again today in a six furlong dash over the flat course. We’ll give ‘Ice a slight edge on top for having a bit more tactical speed and perhaps more room to improve in what will be his third start in his current form cycle and with rising numbers that produced a career top Beyer fig last time out. In a race that projects to have modest early splits, the R. Baltas-trained gelding should be set for another forward move while on or near the lead throughout. His main rival will be doing his best work late and will be hoping for some help up front.

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RACE 2: Post: 1:30 PT Grade: C+
Main Ticket: 4-Hardmoneymuchachos; 3-Big Drinker
Backups/savers: 5-Syntactic.

Forecast: Hardmoneymuchachos returns for the same price ($16,000) that he was claimed for by P. Miller three weeks ago and today makes a major jockey switch to J. Hernandez in this main track miler for non-winners of two older horses. In a five runner field lacking in early speed, the son of California Chrome can control proceedings from start to finish over a dirt surface that he’s finished no worse than second in three prior starts. Big Drinker is a tad faster on speed figures; however his recent maiden claiming score was accomplished in a below average, non-productive affair.

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RACE 3: Post: 2:02 PT Grade: B-
Main Ticket: 7-Ms McWhinney; 5-Certitude (FR)
Backups/savers: 3-Ang N Ash.

Forecast: Ms McWhinney is fresh from a maiden special weight score over this course and distance with a career top number 19 days ago and the projected race shape of this starter optional claimer should complement her late running style, making a repeat victory entirely possible. The daughter of American Pharoah paid quick dividends after being claimed for $50,000 two runs back by D. O’Neill and can get close to covering the purchase price in just her second start for her new connections. Certitude (FR) has yet to make a backward move on numbers in five starts and could easily step forward again, though she remains winless in four career starts on grass and may prefer one corner. However, the switch to J. Hernandez is significant, making her a “must use” in rolling exotic play.,

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RACE 4: Post: 2:32 PT Grade: B-
Main Ticket: 6-Miss McKinzie; 5-Going Deep; 1-Tropical Rain Day.
Backups/Savers: 10-Thirsty Mama.

Forecast: In a wide open maiden juvenile state-bred dash for fillies, we’re largely guessing, so a spread strategy in rolling exotic play is the proper way to attack this race. Miss McKinzie has done most of her preparation at San Luis Rey Downs and has recorded some solid workout times, so with J. Hernandez taking the call for P. Miller she has the look of a live item. A recent bullet half mile drill (:47 3/5h, fastest of 32) certainly catches the eye. Going Deep has displayed enough speed in the a.m. for the L. Mendez outfit to warrant a look despite her modest purchase price ($10,000) while Tropical Rain Done didn’t get the best of runs in her debut when finishing fourth of seven and today lands the rail and adds blinkers, so a forward move seems likely.

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RACE 5: Post: 3:02 PT Grade: X
Main Ticket: 3-Linda’s Gift
Backups/savers: none.

Forecast: Though she was in too tough when fifth in the Gamely S.-G1 last month, Linda’s Gift still earned a strong speed figure and ran her race, so we’re expecting her to regain her winning form in this much easier Grade-3 renewal of the Sana Ana S. over a mile and one-quarter, the distance of her impressive tally two races back. The pace projects to be slow, which is fine for the daughter of Arrogate, who has proven to be almost impossible to beat when handed a soft, front running trip. She’s listed at 6/5 on the morning line but could easily leave at odds-on.

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RACE 6: Post: 3:35 PT Grade: B
Main Ticket: 1-Young Love; 5-Coralgableskaylin
Backups/savers: none

Forecast: Young Love is another first timer vanning up from San Luis Rey Downs for trainer P. Miler and this one looks well-meant just like Miss McKinzie two races earlier. The daughter of Grazen shows two quick gate drills this month that should have her fit and ready, and with a clean break from the rail she could be long gone under top rider J. Hernandez. Coralgableskaylin has displayed some ability in the morning for trainer D. O’Neill, who has enjoyed considerable success with his babies this meeting. With hustling speed rider E. Maldonado taking the call, it would be surprising if she’s no in the fray throughout.

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RACE 7: Post: 4:05 PT Grade: B+
Main Ticket: Tiny Dancer
Backups/savers: 12-Runamileinmyshoes.

Forecast: Tiny Dancer stayed on nicely and galloped out well in a promising sprint debut over the local lawn in early April. She finished a respectable when fourth, beaten less than two lengths and seems sure to improve with that race behind her and this stretch out in trip. The daughter of Sir Prancealot could easily be the controlling speed in this mile affair for older maiden fillies and mares if rating tactics are employed by Runamileinmyshoes. who is stuck way out in the 12 hole. ‘Dancer is listed at 4-1 on the morning line and will offer an excellent gamble at or near that price in the win pool and in the various rolling exotics.

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RACE 8: Post: 4:37 PT Grade: B
Main ticket: 5-Indispendable; 1-Pony Express; 3-Factory Drive
Backups/savers: 7-Feel the Magic; 6-Canada Gate.

Forecast: This race has several pace pressers/forcers in the field, so the early fractions should be hot and contested. Abnormal fast early splits often produce a chaotic result, so we suggest you spread the race as deeply as you can afford to. Indispensable has the proper late running style for the race shape but already has had seven chances and is getting into the habit of not delivering when afforded the opportunity. In the frame in four of his last five, the son of Constitution draws a much better post today, so there should be no excuses. Trainer J. Sadler’s other entrant, Pony Express, lands the rail, continues to impress in the morning, and has plenty of room to improve. He’s 12-1 on the morning line and has something of a long shot chance if he improves as much as we suspect he might. Factory Drive closed a huge gap in his sprint debut and galloped out far in front of race winner and potential superstar Parental into the clubhouse turn in a promising first impression despite finishing sixth, beaten nine lengths in a race that was far too short for him. He was gelded since that outing, so it’ll be interesting to see how much he improves at this two-turn trip.

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RACE 9: Post: 5:08 PT Grade: A-
Main ticket: 1-Divin Propose (FR).
Backups/savers: none.

Forecast: Divin Propos ran very well last year in the competitive French Provinces and arrives with all of his conditions available. He’s looked terrific in a series of workouts that should have him ready to win in his U.S. debut and the P. D’Amato-trained gelding, a first time Lasix user, is a proven stayer and never off the board in five starts at this 10 furlong distance. Additionally, the son of George Vancouver employs a front-running style that can take full advantage of his dogleg draw, so at 9/5 on the morning line he simply should outclass this first level allowance field as a logical rolling exotic single.

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RACE 10: Post: 5:39 PT Grade: B+
Main ticket: One Magic Philly; 11-Hope Road.
Backups/savers: 3-Philippa.

Forecast: This is a monster of a race for older maiden fillies and mare and may have a future stakes winner of two in the field. One Magic Philly has done everything asked of her in the a.m. for trainer P. D’Amato and looks plenty fit for a major effort first crack out of the box. The daughter of Good Magic has displayed plenty of speed but also the ability to re-break and finish, so if she can secure a good early position and then avoid trouble she could easily win a first asking while offering good value at or near her morning line price of 4-1. Hope Road displayed ability last summer as a two-year-old when trained by J. Sadler. Now, she’s in the B. Baffert stable and her workout times indicate she might be a much better type this time around. She lands the stable’s “go-to” rider J. Hernandez, is comfortably drawn outside, and projects to inherit a good second flight position and have every chance from there.

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RACE 11: Post: 6:10 PT Grade: B
Main ticket: Storm Off; 9-Bartholdy; 2-Quality Wins.
Backups/savers: none.

Forecast: Storm Off is yet another first timer shipping in from San Luis Rey Downs for trainer P. Miller) with credentials to win, the third such on today’s card. In a moderate maiden $50,000 seller sprinting on turf, the son of Get Stormy looks quite intriguing at 8-1 on the morning line under J. Hernandez. The works look quite good, so we suspect this sophomore gelding will receive plenty of play. It’s mostly an education guess, but the signs are there. Bartholdy shows up in a seller for the first time and the drop in class should help, but he’s quite modest in the speed figure department, yet he’s a contender by default. Quality Wins has done nothing but burn money in his last three starts and isn’t one to trust, though on pure form he’s a threat and may be worth tossing in somewhere.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:41 AM

Al Cimaglia: Woodbine Mohawk Park NA Cup Night Analysis

June 15, 2024 | By Al Cimaglia
Woodbine Mohawk Park has a 13-race card loaded with big money stakes. The main event is the Pepsi North America Cup that rolls in Race 11 and has a hefty $1,000,000 purse. Comments and selections for the stake races below are based on a fast track.

Race 5-Armbro Flight Purse-$233,000 (8:12 PM EST)

6-M MS Dream (4/5)-Not going to try to beat the chalk, she has been too good. This will be the 3rd start since May 11 and joined the Burke barn then as well. Took a 3-week break, then won both races Wbsb and might be better acclimated tonight than in the previous 2 starts. David Miller will do the steering and this mare appears to be a fair trip away from making it a perfect 5 for 5 in 2024.

$20 Exacta-6-M MS Dream (4/5) over 4-Refined (6-1)
Total Bet=$20

Race 7-Goodtimes Final-Purse $225,000 (9:00 PM EST)

6-Highland Kismet 6/5-There is nothing negative to say about this 3-year-old who has won 2 straight and has made it look easy. Using in exactas but not keying on top, feeling like there could be an upset.

$5 Exacta Box-1-Pick Pocket (10-1) and 6-Highland Kismet (6/5)
$5 Exacta Box 3-Private Access (9/2) and 6-Highland Kismet (6/5)
Total Bet=$20

Race 9-Fan Hanover Final-Purse $425,000 (9:50 PM EST)

6-My Girl EG (3-1)-The Burke trainee has come off the bench locked and loaded. Won her Elim from post 7 with a big mile after finishing 2nd in a stake race at the Meadows from post 7 in the slop. The 2nd morning line chalk should offer a fair price.

$20 to Win 3-My Girl EJ (3-1)
Total Bet=$20

Race 10-Roses Are Red Final-Purse $305,000 (10:15 PM EST)

4-Twin B Joe Fresh (8/5)-The Chris Ryder 4-year-old wins on large and small ovals. Expecting her to be bet hard after a dominant Elimination win. Has won her last 2 starts by a combined 11-lengths and has banked over $1.5 million in 30 races. My take is there is more in the tank, and it would take an awful trip to beat her. Dexter Dunn knows this talented mare really well and will key her on top in a straight exacta.

$20 Exacta 4-Twin B Joe Fresh (8/5) over 3-Always B Naughty (9/2)
Total Bet=$20

Race 11-Pepsi North America Cup-Purse $1,000,000 (10:48 PM EST)

The NA Cup should be a great race to watch and there are multitudes of trip scenarios that could decide the outcome but are very difficult to predict. In last week's Eliminations Funtime Bayama was impressive. What was noticeable beside the determined surge near the wire to outbattle Legendary Hanover, was the way the Richard Moreau pupil won. Sylvain Filion had the pedal down off the gate and got the lead as usual but then sat in the pocket. Actually, at the top of the last turn Bayama was in 3rd place behind Mirage Hanover who came first over.

Funtime Bayama looked relaxed racing in a hole, and that is the key because my guess is he won't wire this field. Filion provided a perfect drive and didn't use the 3-year-old throughout the entire mile. Others last week, appeared to be working harder, and that could matter tonight. Bayama has top notch connections in his corner as well as drawing the choice 6-hole.

Filion could capture the top prize without leading every step of the way. Not going to spread out in this race, but will use Captain Albano who might not be hurt starting from post 2. Todd McCarthy could work a cozy trip and be right there at the wire. Chalks often don't shine bright in the Cup. My guess is Funtime Bayama won't be the favorite and will go off at 3-1 or 4-1, with Captains Quarters and Nijinsky attracting more betting interest.

$10 Exacta Box-2-Captain Albano (4-1) and 6-Funtime Bayama (3-1)
Total Bet=$20

$40 to Win on 6-Funtime Bayama (3-1)
Total Bet=$40

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:41 AM

Race of the Week: Salvator Mile at Monmouth | Saturday

June 14, 2024 | By Jeremy Plonk
The Lead:
Saturday's Haskell Preview Day card at Monmouth Park features stakes events in Races 9-12, capped by the $150,000 Salvator Mile. These 4 races are preps toward main events on July 20, the Salvator Mile perhaps a launch to the 1-1/8 miles Monmouth Cup next month. But this may also be the destination race for middle-distance dirt horses at the meeting.

Field Depth:
Grade 1 winners BRIGHT FUTURE and SHIRL'S SPEIGHT bring top-end credentials to the field of 8. STAGE RAIDER and SHERLOCK'S JEWEL are Grade 3-placed. The Grade 1 pair holds a significant class edge over the rest.

Pace:
MOVISITOR and BRIGHT FUTURE should be among the early mix with OSCAR ECLIPSE and COAST MISSION in close pursuit. The pace looks modest for a flat mile trip over a track that often plays to speed on big days like this.

Our Eyes:
Here are my horse-by-horse notes.

#1-SHERLOCK'S JEWEL: Former turf performer found a home on dirt this year at Tampa Bay Downs and comes in off a 3-month freshening. Trainer Shug McGaughey got a solid return win off the layoff with this Lea gelding to open 2023 and has 4 local drills to acclimate. Should be running late.

#2-BRIGHT FUTURE: Even-money chalk in the morning line won a modest edition of the Grade 1 Jockey Club Gold Cup in September before a Breeders' Cup Classic effort that may have been better, despite a 6th-place effort when beaten less than 4 lengths. Curlin colt doesn't have brilliant speed, but from post 2 under a good front-end jockey like Javier Castellano, he's well-positioned to show early foot and his class. Sharpened for this with a quick half-mile for Todd Pletcher on the Belmont training track. Obvious big threat.

#3-ARTORIUS: Chad Brown's blue-blooded 5-year-old by Arrogate out of Paulassilverlining got a late start in April of his 3YO season, raced only twice at 4 and twice so far this year. Hasn't handled his business against the better names in his running lines over the years, including a 5-plus length defeat to Bright Future in allowance company last summer at Saratoga. Feels like an underlay with Flavien Prat up for Brown.

#4-SHIRL'S SPEIGHT: $1.4 million earner has done most all of his good work on turf. Finished an unthreatening third of 5 in this race 2 years ago when trying dirt, but that was a tougher lineup behind Mind Control and Hot Rod Charlie. Doesn't appear fast enough to keep pace early as jockey Paco Lopez is more apt to attempt. Feels like a no-lead, no-pass situation while saddled with a 12-race losing streak.

#5-OSCAR ECLIPSE: Two-turn trip will be an obstacle for Kentucky-based colt who won Gulfstream's Sir Shackleton while wintering in the south. He's 0-3 lifetime in true, 2-turn races and must pick up 4 pounds (while spotting his key rivals the same 4 pounds - on Saturday. Part of the early mix, but prefer others finishing the deal.

#6-MOVISITOR: Parx-based Uncle Mo colt's last 4 wins have all come wire-to-wire, so his intent under speed jockey Kendrick Carmouche will be obvious. Previous bids away from Parx haven't been fruitful and he's followed up his last 3 wins with disastrous results. The quality of Bright Future keeping him honest makes this a tough assignment.

#7-STAGE RAIDER: First start of the year for this 6-year-old half-brother to Triple Crown winner Justify. He's been best around this time of year in past seasons, but was further along in his form cycle in those. Past bids off the bench haven't inspired, but respected trainer Cherie DeVaux's runners have been going very well for the past few months. Bullet half-mile at Keeneland for this gives some hope for a better comeback bid in 2024.

#8-COASTAL MISSION: Charles Town star continues to be a road warrior in recent outings from NY to MD to NJ. His 2-turn races at Charles Town over 7F on the bullring are the blueprint to this trip and think he'll love the mile around 2 bends that isn't at a sprint-like pace. Regular pilot Arnaldo Bocachica must work out a trip from the outside post as he can't afford to give away ground loss against these types.

Most Certain Exotics Contender:
BRIGHT FUTURE should be in the hunt throughout and has really only 1 poor effort in his 8 starts.

Best Longshot Exotics Contender:
At 10-1 morning line, COASTAL MISSION is fit and could absolutely love the trip.

Sending it in ($100 bankroll):
$75 exacta BRIGHT FUTURE over COASTAL MISSION. $25 exacta BRIGHT FUTURE over SHERLOCK'S JEWEL.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:42 AM

Brian W. Spencer's Daily Picks

Churchill Downs - Race #0

#3 Lucky Speech	She took her time getting to that graduation run, but she woke up in a big way when getting back over the dirt last time out. Tracking player might be improving at the right time to land this at a midrange price?
#6 Intricate	She didn't come back to the tab for almost two months after the Fair Grounds Oaks dud, but she's obviously capable of something better that fits well enough if she can bounce back today.
#2 Our Pretty Woman	She only briefly chased in the Kentucky Oaks, and there is obviously not anything like Thorpedo Anna lined up against her today. Wouldn't be any surprise.
Race Summary	Lucky Speech cruised in her local debut here last month, and maybe she's just finding her best game at this point in her sophomore season. The other listed pair are both obvious players on class and better form.

Churchill Downs - Race #7

#2 Webslinger	He has not seen an ungraded group since his last win, which came here last June, and he might be able to come along late to land this on the drop -- this is still a deep race for the level, though.
#6 Bold Act	He has done his better work at longer trips than this, but he has to turn the tables on the guy who beat him last time around. One of the ones.
#9 Winning Spirit	He's back off the bench for his American debut, and he has been fairly reliable up to this point. Unlike the top pair, he's getting his class test today.
Race Summary	Webslinger has been running into some of the toughest customers on any of these pages and may still offer an OK price in a really competitive spot. #10 Sugoi makes sense while on a tear if you just need to get through this race.

Churchill Downs - Race #10

#9 Kiss Blue	I'm not sure this is going to come back as the toughest special weight of the season here, so I'm willing to take a look at this debut on the track ahead of this. Intriguing enough.
#7 Appellate	Dropper comes back fresh with some potential for a nice second half of the season, and she already has some pretty deep company lines through just three career starts.
#6 Just the Sky	Barn has done decent work in similar local spots, and she's another player in what feels like a race that could go a few different ways. In the conversation.
Race Summary	Thinking #1 On Command and #5 Moonlight Gambler on the deeper plays, but Kiss Blue might be in the right kind of spot for a fresh face. The price should be fine.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:44 AM

Frank Carulli's Daily Picks

Laurel Park - Race #1

#2 LADY HAMILTON (3-1)	Steady miler, 2-for-5 on turf, can stalk and pounce in bid to join $100k Club.
#9 DIVA READY (2-1)	Lightly-raced 5yo will be running late, seeks fourth win on the lawn.
#1 JOYA DEL SUR (4-1)	Led at every call but two in last four starts, draws the rail on switch to turf.
Race Summary	LADY HAMILTON stalked the pace from up close and ‘edged ahead’ at the eighth pole, only to get caught by hard hitting Red Pixie (12-29, $144k) in a one-mile race on a synthetic track. She could work out a similar trip in here and has some good turf numbers to summon. Bet to win and place.

Laurel Park - Race #2

#7 MAJESTY’S FREEDOM (8-	Live longshot can rally into soft pace while running for cheapest tag yet.
#3 JOB’S NOT FINISHED (6	In control to beat weak field, rallied for share in prior three short sprints.
#9 TINA TINA TINA (4-1)	Disappeared in latest but can’t be discounted with 7-14 runner-up mark.
Race Summary	MAJESTY’S FREEDOM, plagued by wide trips against better, can make a contending rally at a tempting price on the class drop. Her connections are 8-for-32 in the last month, showing a positive return on investment. Bet to win and place and play a 3-7-9 exacta box.

Laurel Park - Race #4

#3 PAPERBACK EDITION (4-1)	Improved with blinks, set pace in longer sprint, changes riders again.
#5 ANY FOOLS GOLD (7-2)	Chased the 5-to-2 winner, held second in second start for new barn.
#7 PEACHESSWEETNOTION (5-2)	Best numbers, running out of chances, third in last pair as the fave.
Race Summary	PAPERBACK EDITION recovered quickly after she was bumped at the break, came under a drive while leading into the stretch and held second at 6F. She finished between a trio of deep closers and can use her speed well on the cutback to 5-1/2F. Bet to win and place.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:44 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Equibase Special

PURCHASE

Equibase Special - Race 3	Leg 3 of the Santa Anita All Turf Pick 3
Maiden Claiming $50,000 • 6 Furlongs • Turf • Ages 3-5 • CR: 90 • Purse: $30,000 • Post: 6:10P
SA - R11 - FOR MAIDENS, THREE, FOUR, AND FIVE YEARS OLD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 118 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $50,000.

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Fast-paced Race. There are many horses that could vie for the early lead. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners. * KEY ANGLES * QUALITY WINS: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rating. BARTHOLDY: Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface. SEA OF CORTEZ (IRE): Horse ranks in the top three in TrackMaster Power Rati ng. Horse has the highest average Equibase Speed Figure at the distance/surface.
2	QUALITY WINS	5/2	9/2
9	BARTHOLDY	4/1	6/1
10	SEA OF CORTEZ (IRE)	6/1	6/1

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
7	LEGITIFY (IRE)	6	8/1	Front-runner	0	0	107.6	78.3	63.8
6	BILLBERNJOEJOHNICK	5	6/1	Front-runner	84	84	90.8	78.0	67.0
4	LEADING	3	12/1	Front-runner	0	0	0.0	0.0	0.0
9	BARTHOLDY	8	4/1	Alternator/Front-runner	96	94	104.7	85.5	79.5
2	QUALITY WINS	1	5/2	Stalker	92	93	71.1	87.5	82.5
10	SEA OF CORTEZ (IRE)	9	6/1	Alternator/Stalker	90	89	87.2	87.2	80.2
13	CLASSICALLY	12	10/1	Alternator/Stalker	95	88	55.9	83.4	71.4
11	UNCHARTED	10	20/1	Alternator/Non-contender	86	82	74.0	75.3	62.3
3	TAKAMAKAHARA	2	30/1	Alternator/Non-contender	68	49	52.6	45.8	27.3
8	BIG ATTITUDE	7	30/1	Alternator/Non-contender	0	0	27.5	55.0	37.5
12	SHOT OF COURAGE	11	20/1	Alternator/Non-contender	101	98	0.0	0.0	0.0

Unknown Running Style: STORM OFF (8/1) [Jockey: Hernandez Juan J - Trainer: Miller Peter].

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:45 AM

F.A.S.T. Sheets Free Race for Chippewa DownsPURCHASE

Chippewa Downs - Race 4	$2 Exacta / $2 Quinella / $2 Trifecta($1 Box)
Stakes • 5 Furlongs • Dirt • Ages 3 and up • CR: 82 • Purse: $10,000 • Post: 3:00P
NDTA OPEN SPEED S. - (INCLUDES UP TO $1,500 SPONSORSHIP MONEY) FOR THOROUGHBREDS THREE YEARS OLD AND OLDER. HIGH WEIGHTS PREFERRED. $300 ENTRY FEE TO RUN AND THERE MUST BE FIVE ENTRIES TO RUN. THE OWNERS MUST BE A MEMBER OF THE NDTA BY JUNE 1ST IN ORDER TO ENTER, THREE YEAR OLDS 124 LBS. OLDER 126 LBS.

Contenders				Race Analysis
P#	Horse	Morn Line	Accept Odds	Race Type: Basic Race. This race has a mixed pace scenario. Check on scratches of any of the Front-runners (to look for a lone Front-runner). * KEY ANGLES * OPTIMISTIC VALOR: Horse is highest ranked on Good Speed and Good Class. Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. DAAHERS BULLY: Today is a sprint, horse is a Front-runner with an inside post position. Today is a sprint and the horse's last start was within the last ten days. WELDON G: Today is a sprint, horse is a Front-run ner with an inside post position. Horse has the highest TrackMaster Power Rating. JAMES'S MOONSHINE: Horse has run a Good Race within the last 30 days. Horse ranks in the top three in average Equibase Class Rating at the distance/surface.
5	OPTIMISTIC VALOR	4/1	5/1
1	DAAHERS BULLY	6/5	5/1
2	WELDON G	4/1	5/1
3	JAMES'S MOONSHINE	2/1	9/1

P#	Horse (In Running Style Order)	Post	Morn Line	Running Style	Good Class	Good Speed	Early Figure	Finish Figure	Platinum Figure
2	WELDON G	2	4/1	Front-runner	72	73	61.5	67.0	62.5
1	DAAHERS BULLY	1	6/5	Front-runner	75	65	57.0	65.0	59.5
5	OPTIMISTIC VALOR	5	4/1	Stalker	79	73	58.3	69.0	66.0
3	JAMES'S MOONSHINE	3	2/1	Alternator/Stalker	74	60	73.0	67.2	60.2
4	PRESTIGIOUSLY WILD	4	15/1	Alternator/Non-contender	74	55	20.0	12.8	2.8

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:45 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Ruidoso Downs

PURCHASE
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 1 - Maiden - 350y on the Dirt. Purse: $19800 Class Rating: 57

QUARTER HORSE 350Y, FOR MAIDENS, TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 124 LBS.

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 4 MY CORONA B GONE 9/2
# 6 APOLLITICAL REVENANT 5/1
# 3 BP SEIS ALL 10/1

I think MY CORONA B GONE is a decent choice. Belloc has this gelding racing well and is a decent choice based on the respectable speed figures recorded in short races lately. Has longshot possibilities and could win at boxcar odds. The big drop in class can only help this one this time out. APOLLITICAL REVENANT - Boasts solid Equibase Speed Figures on average overall when compared with the rest of this group of horses. There is a decent chance that this entry's late pace will improve with second time Lasix. BP SEIS ALL - Meeting a much less demanding field of horses than last time out. Enriquez has solid numbers that point to this gelding to be a strong contender.

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:45 AM

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

PURCHASE

Energy Downs 307 Racing - Race #9 - Post: 4:50pm - Claiming - 5.5 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $10,100 Class Rating: 63

Rating:

#4 WITHSTANDTHESTORM (ML=7/2)
#7 MEET GEORGE JETSON (ML=12/1)
#3 CAN DANZER (ML=3/1)

WITHSTANDTHESTORM - I think this gelding is very fit right now. I like the fact that Bethke brings him back to a race so quickly. Was in a $5,000 Claiming race at Canterbury Park last out. That race had a class figure of 71 and he is moving down in this field. A certain win candidate. I like this gelding. Has the topmost earnings per race entered in this one. MEET GEORGE JETSON - You always have to be on the prowl for revenue generating jockey/trainer tandems; we have it right here. Last time this gelding ran today's trip he got a speed rating that would probably win today's event. This gelding is back in a race very quick. This is a great angle - Sprinters that come back in less than 10 days after a race. A good sign of a sharp and ready racehorse. This gelding has higher odds on the morning line than the other entrant from the stable of Rushton. Better beware of this angle. CAN DANZER - Have to make this gelding a win candidate; he comes off a strong contest on June 9th. Cardoso comes to saddle up after getting to know the gelding in the last race. The fact that this gelding is entered right back into a race so quickly means he's fit and ready. Using this rider/trainer combination is a good move. You have to really like that last race fig, 66, which is the top last race speed figure of this field. This gelding should be at the peak of fitness, this far into his form cycle.

Vulnerable Contenders: #6 CLASS COMPOUNDS (ML=4/1), #9 KONA KINLEY (ML=9/2),

CLASS COMPOUNDS - Tough for me to be playing this type of maiden breaker. KONA KINLEY - This filly recorded a speed figure in her last race which probably isn't good enough today.

GUEST COMMENTARY: Hal - CAN DANZER - This racer should be your betting choice today. This gelding has posted improving speed figures in his last two contests.

STRAIGHT WAGERS:	#4 WITHSTANDTHESTORM is the play if we get odds of 5/2 or better
EXACTA WAGERS:	4 with [3,7]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:	Box [3,4,7] Total Cost: $6

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:45 AM

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

PURCHASE

Santa Anita - Race #6 - Post: 3:35pm - Maiden Special - 5.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $54,000 Class Rating: 84

Rating:

#4 GRACIE'S BIG DAY (ML=12/1)
#6 THIRSTY IN VEGAS (ML=3/1)

GRACIE'S BIG DAY - Pereira is right back for another affair today after getting on board this horse for the initial time on May 26th and ought to know the ropes to this one a little better. Horse didn't get the best of trips in her last (and only) race. Expect much better today. Analyzers took note of this filly in her maiden race at Santa Anita, sending her off at low odds. Look for a solid chance of improvement in this race. THIRSTY IN VEGAS - Horse didn't get the best of trips in her debut. Should improve this time around. Jock hops back up atop after getting to know the race horse by riding last race out. That's always a helpful angle. Adding blinkers often leads to improvement on the racetrack.

Vulnerable Contenders: #10 THIRSTY DESTINY (ML=5/2), #1 YOUNG LOVE (ML=4/1), #2 MEMOSIS (ML=6/1),

THIRSTY DESTINY - Disappointing rating in the last race at Santa Anita at 4 1/2 furlongs. Don't believe this steed will improve too much in today's event. YOUNG LOVE - Don't believe this entrant has what it takes to be the victor this time out. MEMOSIS - Would have to get quite a bit more than the morning line odds of 6/1 to bet on this horse.

STRAIGHT WAGERS:	Go with #4 GRACIE'S BIG DAY on top if we're getting at least 5/2 odds
EXACTA WAGERS:	Box [4,6]
TRIFECTA WAGERS:	None
SUPERFECTA WAGERS:	None
SUPER HI 5 WAGERS:	None

**Can'tPickAWinner** · 06-15-2024, 10:45 AM

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Emerald Downs

PURCHASE
Always check program numbers.
Odds shown are morning line odds.

Race 8 - Claiming - 5.5f on the Dirt. Purse: $10000 Class Rating: 75

FOR THREE YEAR OLDS AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NOT WON A RACE IN 2024 OR WHICH HAVE NEVER WON FOUR RACES. THREE YEAR OLDS, 121 LBS.; OLDER, 125 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $3,500

RECOMMENDED CHOICES
	# 4 WEAR THE CROWN 8/5
# 2 WHOS DALLINS DADDY 15/1
# 7 CANDIED LUTE 8/1

WEAR THE CROWN looks to be a competitive contender. Is a key contender - given the 80 speed rating from his most recent race. With a strong 70 average speed figure at the distance, seems well suited for today's affair. With one of the most favorable riders in terms of gains at the window, don't count this gelding out. WHOS DALLINS DADDY - Will most likely come out strong - I have liked the way this gelding has moved speedily to the front end recently. Horses who have been prepared to race at this distance and surface by Gibson have shown sharp results lately. CANDIED LUTE - Has run very well when running a dirt sprint race. Win percentage under similar conditions may be the key for this gelding.