Friday 1/27/17 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Heat (16-30) at Bulls (23-24)

Date: January 27, 2017 8:00 PM EDT

Chicago Bulls guard Dwyane Wade will face his former team for the third time this season when the Miami Heat visit the United Center on Friday night.

Yet it is Wade's current team that has drawn his ire as of late. He wants to see a better effort from his teammates--- namely, everyone other than All-Star forward Jimmy Butler -- after the Bulls collapsed in the final minutes of the fourth quarter Wednesday to lose to the Atlanta Hawks.

"I don't know if I see enough guys who really want it," said Wade, who joined the Bulls as a free agent during the offseason. "Losses like (Wednesday's), it has to hurt them. I'm 35 years old, man. I've got three championships. It shouldn't hurt me more than it hurts these young guys. They have to want it."

It remains to be seen how the Bulls (23-24) will respond to Wade's tongue-lashing. They have a chance to climb back to .500 against the Heat (16-30), whom they already have beaten twice this season.

This time, however, Miami is playing much better. The Heat have won five games in a row after losing 30 of their first 41 contests. The winning streak has included impressive victories over the Houston Rockets, Dallas Mavericks, Milwaukee Bucks, Golden State Warriors and Brooklyn Nets.

Guard Dion Waiters has hit some big shots during Miami's winning streak, but forward Okaro White has stolen many of the headlines. The rookie from Florida State signed a 10-day contract with the Heat on Jan. 17, and since then the team has posted a 5-0 record with no signs of slowing down.

White hit a go-ahead 3-pointer, grabbed a rebound and made a pair of free throws as the Heat held on for a 109-106 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday. He is averaging 3.8 points and 3.0 rebounds while earning the nickname "Okar(5-)O" from the South Florida Sun Sentinel in reference to the streak.

"It's amazing," White told reporters after Miami's latest win. "It's amazing how quick your life can change in the matter of days, so hopefully it keeps going. We (need to) keep the wheel turning, like I said, and keep playing Miami Heat basketball."

To beat the Heat, the Bulls likely will lean on Butler and Wade to do the bulk of the scoring. Butler leads the team with 24.9 points per game, and Wade is second with 19.1 points per game. The rest of the lineup has provided inconsistent offense for coach Fred Hoiberg, who has shuffled point guards in recent weeks from Rajon Rondo to Michael Carter-Williams to Jerian Grant.

Whoever plays the point for the Bulls will be asked to defend Goran Dragic, who leads the Heat with 19.5 points per game. Miami center Hassan Whiteside is averaging 16.9 points per game and likely will be defended by 7-footer Robin Lopez of the Bulls. Whiteside is battling a sprained right ankle and managed only seven points in 20-plus minutes against the Nets.

Chicago is 14-10 at home despite its midweek meltdown against the Hawks. Meanwhile, Miami is 7-17 on the road, including a 105-100 loss in Chicago on Dec. 10.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Spurs (36-9) at Pelicans (18-28)

Date: January 27, 2017 8:00 PM EDT

NEW ORLEANS -- Over the past three seasons, the New Orleans Pelicans have been beset by more than their fair share of injuries, and while they have remained comparatively healthy this year, they continue to be stung by a series of nagging medical issues with their leading player, All-Star forward Anthony Davis.

Davis is officially listed as probable for Friday night's game against the San Antonio Spurs (36-9) at the Smoothie King Center, but the NBA's second-leading scorer has struggled since sustaining a deep right thigh bruise in a loss to Brooklyn on Jan. 20.

Davis sat out a 124-122 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Monday with the deep thigh contusion and then played only the first half of 114-105 home loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night, scoring just eight points with five rebounds.

While Davis is averaging 28.1 points, 11.8 rebounds and 2.4 blocks per game overall for the 18-28 Pelicans, over his last four starts, those averages have shrunk to 16.8 points, 7.8 rebounds and 1.0 blocks.

He has missed all or parts of seven of the Pelicans' last eight games, and the most concerning aspect of his OKC departure was that he did not appear to sustain a big hit before limping into the locker room.

"It's not good," said Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry. "It's tough. He wants to be out there, and he's trying to be out there. It would be easy just to sit out, but I think he's doing everything he can to be out there. If he's hurt, then he's hurt. But the fact that he starts the game and tries to see if he can play through it is all you can ask a player to do."

The Pelicans did not practice on Thursday, so it's anyone's guess if Davis will play, and, even if he does, how effective he will be against the Spurs.

"We feel like, with Anthony out, that the bulk of the scoring isn't there or it might go missing," said New Orleans point guard Jrue Holiday. "It has to come from somewhere (else)."

The Spurs, meanwhile, have won five straight, the most recent a 108-106 victory at Toronto on Tuesday in which they rallied from a late deficit. In addition to their normal ball-sharing and defensive focus, the Spurs could get point guard Tony Parker back Friday night from lingering left foot soreness.

Parker is listed as probable, but forward Kawhi Leonard is questionable with a sore left hand and reserve forward Jonathon Simmons is doubtful with a sprained ankle.

The Spurs have won the first two games of the season series with the Pelicans, beating New Orleans 98-79 behind Leonard's 20 points in their home opener on Oct. 29 and defeating the Pelicans 113-100, with LaMarcus Aldridge scoring 22 points and grabbing seven rebounds, during Tim Duncan's jersey retirement night on Dec. 18 at the AT&T Center.

The Spurs have won the last five meetings against New Orleans.

Despite losing Duncan, the future Hall of Famer, to retirement, the Spurs are fourth in the NBA in offensive rating, scoring 111.4 points per 100 possessions, and third in defensive efficiency, yielding 101.7 points per 100 possessions.

The Spurs' 36-9 record is their third-best in franchise history through 45 games. They were 38-7 in both 2010-11 and 2015-16. San Antonio also is 20-4 on the road.

Spurs coach Gregg Popovich needs one more victory for 1,127 career wins, which would tie would tie him with Jerry Sloan for the most career wins with one NBA franchise.

Toronto coach Dwane Casey called Popovich the best coach in professional sports.

"That's very flattering but obviously untrue," Popovich said. "I've been around a long time, and we've won some games, and if you've forgotten, I got to coach Tim Duncan. That made me look pretty good."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Grizzlies (27-20) at Trail Blazers (20-27)

Date: January 27, 2017 10:00 PM EDT

PORTLAND, Ore. -- The Portland Trail Blazers know what their No. 1 defensive task will be when they play host to the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night at Moda Center: contain Marc Gasol.

The Grizzlies' veteran center is on a roll of late, highlighted by a career-best, 42-point performance in a 101-99 win over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night at FedEx Forum. Gasol made 14 of 25 shots from field against the Raptors, including a career-best five 3-pointers, to go with seven rebounds.

"I shot a few, the ball went in, and then the rim got a little bigger and I just kept shooting," Gasol said. "It kept going in. I made plays when I was supposed to. I was aggressive. And when I wasn't open, I tried to make plays for somebody else."

Memphis point guard Michael Conley said, "It's so much fun to watch and to be a part of when he's playing like that. Tonight was something special. It got to the point where everybody was just trying to get him the ball, no matter where we were on the court.

"If a guy has it going, is having a great night like tonight -- you saw how excited we all were for him. It was a great night to be his teammate."

Over his past five games, Gasol is averaging 30.8 points on 53.7 percent shooting, including 41.4 percent from 3-point range. With Memphis short-handed on the front line -- starting forwards JaMychal Green and Chandler Parsons both missed the Toronto game with sore knees -- Gasol's offensive contributions are extra important.

"The last few games, I've been trying to (score) a little bit more," he said. "I'm not looking for anybody else to run the play. I'm just trying to catch it in a spot where I can read my defender, see where the double-team is coming from and make a play."

The Grizzlies (27-20) are only 5-6 in the month of January as they begin a six-game road trip in Portland.

"Going out on a trip where we know each game is going to be tougher," Conley said, "it was really good to get a win against a very good team like Toronto."

The Trail Blazers (20-27) are looking for their first three-game winning streak since Nov. 30-Dec. 5. They will be playing the game second of a five-game homestand.

"It's a great opportunity for us," point guard Damian Lillard said after Portland's 105-98 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday. "We had a big win in Boston (on Sunday), a pretty good win here tonight at home, and now we have a good Memphis team coming in. That will be a test for us and a chance to take that next step to do something we haven't done in a while."

The Blazers were also without a pair of forwards on Wednesday, Moe Harkless (calf) and Ed Davis (knee).

Coach Terry Stotts was asked before the game if the current homestand is critical to Portland's playoff push.

"Given our record, at this point in the season, every week is critical," he said. "We haven't given ourselves any cushion. You want to win at home, and that makes it a little bit more of a priority. But from now on, every game takes on added importance."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Free NBA Picks: Friday, Jan. 27, 2017, Opening Line Report and Handicapping
by Alan Matthews

If you are like me, you are rather tired of the Dunk Contest on All-Star Weekend but also can't not watch just in case something spectacular happens. Last year something did as the Magic's Aaron Gordon and Timberwolves' Zach LaVine staged an epic duel won by LaVine -- although most believe Gordon should have won. This year's Dunk Contest field hasn't been finalized yet, but Gordon will return. That's great news. The bad is that LaVine is not likely to pursue a threepeat. And another fabulous in-game dunker, Larry Nance Jr., the son of former Dunk Contest champion Larry Nance, also is passing. Celtics rookie Jaylen Brown also said he will not compete. The only other names I've heard along with Gordon who will compete thus far as Indiana's Glenn Robinson III and Suns lightly-used rookie Derrick Jones. Blah.

Kings at Pacers (-4.5, 215)

Indiana was in Minnesota on Friday. Sacramento won a second straight on Wednesday in a big upset, 116-112 in OT at Cleveland. Arron Afflalo hit the key 3-pointer with 17.3 seconds left. DeMarcus Cousins had 28 points and 10 rebounds for the Kings, who trailed by five with 2:30 left in overtime and by 10 in the fourth quarter. Sacramento lost at home to Indiana 106-100 on Jan. 18 but has won its past two at Indiana.

Key trends: The underdog is 5-1 against the spread in the past six meetings. The "over/under" has gone under in the past four.

Early lean: Kings and over.

Nets at Cavaliers (-16.5, 224)

Cleveland's struggles continued with a third straight loss Wednesday, 116-112 in OT at home to Sacramento. The Cavs blew a double-digit fourth-quarter lead and a five-point advantage in OT. LeBron James was understandably displeased afterward. He had a second straight triple-double with 24 points, 13 rebounds and 11 assists. Kevin Love had 21 points and 16 rebounds. Cleveland was just 17-for-34 from the free-throw line. Not that it would have mattered, but Richard Jefferson was away from the team for the birth of a child. The Nets lost their third in a row Wednesday, 109-106 to the Heat. Brooklyn blew an 18-point fourth-quarter lead. The Nets wasted a 33-point effort from Brook Lopez. Cleveland is 2-0 vs. Brooklyn this season and has won seven straight in the series at home.

Key trends: The Nets are 2-5 ATS in their past seven in Cleveland. The under is 6-1 in the past seven.

Early lean: Nets and under.

Magic at Celtics (TBA)

Orlando lost a second in a row Tuesday, 100-92 at home to Chicago. Leading scorer Evan Fournier was out again as was backup/sometimes starting point guard D.J. Augustin. Boston ended a three-game slide with a 120-109 home win over Houston on Wednesday. Isaiah Thomas continued his brilliance with 38 points, a 29th straight game with at least 20. Orlando lost by 30 at home to the Celtics on Dec. 7 and has dropped the past 11 in Boston.

Key trends: The favorite is 7-3 ATS in the past 10 meetings. The over is 9-2 in Boston's past 11 at home.

Early lean: Wait on Magic guys.

Bucks at Raptors (TBA)

Milwaukee was upset 114-109 at home by Philadelphia on Wednesday. Greg Monroe's season-high 28 points led the Bucks. Giannis Antetokounmpo had 17 points and 12 rebounds. John Henson was a DNP-CD for the second straight game. He had been starting. Toronto is on a season-high five-game losing streak after falling 101-99 in Memphis in the Raptors' second straight game without All-Star DeMar DeRozan. Kyle Lowry missed a tough 3-pointer at the buzzer. He had 29 points. Toronto is 2-0 vs. Milwaukee this season and has won the past six meetings overall.

Key trends: The Bucks are 0-4 ATS in the past four meetings. The under is 6-2 in the past eight.

Early lean: Wait on DeRozan.

Hornets at Knicks (+2.5, 216)

Charlotte lost a second in a row Wednesday, 113-103 at home to Golden State. Kemba Walker was questionable with an illness but played through it and had 26 points. Center Cody Zeller was out with a quad contusion. New York lost 103-95 in Dallas on Wednesday. Carmelo Anthony had 30 points. Charlotte and New York have split two close games this season, each winning at home.

Key trends: The Hornets are 2-5 ATS in the past seven meetings. The over is 12-3-2 in the previous 17.

Early lean: Knicks and over.

Rockets at 76ers (TBA)

ESPN game. Houston lost 120-109 in Boston on Wednesday for its second consecutive defeat. James Harden had 30 points and 12 assists. Eric Gordon was a late scratch due to lower back tightness. The 76ers are 2-0 this week, which I didn't see coming because they played both without Joel Embiid. They won in Milwaukee on Wednesday, 114-109. Nerlens Noel is really building up trade value as he has been great in the two games; Noel had 16 points and 13 rebounds vs. the Bucks. Houston blasted Philly 115-88 on Nov. 14 and has taken six in a row in the series.

Key trends: The Rockets are 1-4 ATS in their past five in Philly. The under is 7-1-1 in the Sixers' past nine at home.

Early lean : Wait on Embiid.

Heat at Bulls (-5, 204.5)

Miami won its fifth straight Wednesday, 109-106 in Brooklyn, rallying from an 18-point fourth-quarter deficit. Dion Waiters had a second big game in row with 14 of his 24 points in the third, including the clinching 3-pointer with 6.8 seconds left. These wins are ruining Miami's tanking plans. Chicago blew a late 10-point lead at home and lost to Atlanta, 119-114 on Wednesday. Dwyane Wade and Jimmy Butler called out their teammates after. They combined for 73 points. Chicago goes for the three-game season sweep against Wade's former team.

Key trends: The Heat are 4-0 ATS in the past four in Chicago. The under is 8-3 in the past 11 meetings.

Early lean: Bulls and under.

Spurs at Pelicans (TBA)

San Antonio won its fifth in a row Tuesday, 108-106 in Toronto despite playing without Kawhi Leonard, Tony Parker and Pau Gasol (who is out a while). The Spurs are simply a machine as they plug in guys and they perform in place of starters. The team is taking the cautious route with Leonard's hand injury, so it's not clear if he plays here. New Orleans lost 114-105 at home to Oklahoma City on Wednesday. Anthony Davis returned from a one-game injury absence but, as seems to be the case too often with him, left in the second quarter after aggravating that problem. San Antonio is 2-0 vs. New Orleans this year and has won the past five meetings.

Key trends: The Spurs are 3-7 ATS in the past 10 meetings. The under is 4-1-1 in the last six.

Early lean: Wait on Leonard and Davis.

Wizards at Hawks (-4, 213.5)

Washington continued its home dominance with a 123-108 victory over Boston on Tuesday. Bradley Beal scored 13 of his 31 points in the fourth quarter, and the Wizards extended their home winning streak to 14 games. John Wall added 27. Atlanta rallied from down 10 with about three minutes left in Chicago on Wednesday and won 119-114. Dennis Schroder scored 24 points and Paul Millsap added 21. Washington and Atlanta split two early-season meetings, each winning at home.

Key trends: The Hawks are 5-2 ATS in their past seven at home. The over is 10-2 in the past 12 meetings in Atlanta.

Early lean: Hawks and over.

Grizzlies at Trail Blazers (-2, 207)

Memphis beat short-handed Toronto 101-99 on Wednesday behind Marc Gasol's career-high 42. He also hit the deciding free throws. Tony Allen added 15 points and 11 rebounds. Forwards Chandler Parsons and JaMychal Green sat out with knee injuries. Portland won its second in a row Wednesday, 105-98 over the visiting Lakers. Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum scored 24 points apiece in the Blazers' 11th straight win in the series. The Grizzlies are 6-2 against the Trail Blazers at the Moda Center since the start of the 2012-13 season. It's Memphis' only trip there this season.

Key trends: The Grizzlies are 2-5-1 ATS in the past eight meetings. The over is 7-2 in Portland's past nine after a win.

Early lean: Blazers and over.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NBA

Friday’s games

Houston won its last six games with the 76ers (3-3 vs spread); they won by 11-14 points in last two visits here. Six of last nine series games went over total. Rockets lost six of last nine games, are 11-8 as road favorites. Over is 7-3 in their last ten road games. Sixers won 10 of their last 13 games; they won/covered their last six home games. Last three Philly games went over the total.

Kings won four of last five games with Indiana but lost to the Pacers at home nine days ago. Sacramento won by won last two visits here, by 5-2 points. Last four series games stayed under the total. Kings won last two games after a 1-7 skid; they covered seven of their last nine as a road underdog. Over is 10-6 in their last 16 games. Indiana lost three of its last four games, but won five of last six home games; they’re 10-7 as home faves. Under is 4-1 in their last five games.

Toronto won nine of last ten games with Milwaukee, covering last four; Bucks lost their last three games in Canada, by 19-7-22 points. Under is 6-2 in last eight series games. Milwaukee lost six of last seven games; they’re 5-11 as road underdogs. Over is 6-2-1 in their last nine games. Raptors lost its last four games; they’re 1-8 vs spread in last nine road games. Three of their last four games stayed under the total.

Cleveland won eight of last ten games with the Nets, but are just 3-5-1 vs spread in last nine series games. Brooklyn lost its last five games in Cleveland (2-3 vs spread); six of last seven series games stayed under. Nets lost last three games, but covered four of their last five- they are 5-3 in last eight games as a road dog. Cavaliers lost three in row, six of last eight games; they’re 1-4-1 in last six games as a home favorite- their last four games went over.

Home side won nine of last ten Orlando-Boston games, with Celtics winning three of last four. Magic lost their last five games here (0-5 vs spread). Three of last four series games went over the total. Orlando lost five of its last six games; they’re 3-6 in last nine games as a road underdog. Celtics lost three of last four games, are 5-8 in last 13 games as a home favorite. Six of their last nine games went over total.

Charlotte won seven of its last nine games with New York but covered just two of last seven series games. Hornets lost three of last five visits here (3-2 vs spread). Last three series games went over the total. Charlotte lost its last six road games; they’re 5-8 vs spread in last 13 road games. Last seven Charlotte games stayed under. Knicks lost 14 of last 18 games, are 2-6 vs spread in last eight home games. Under is 7-3 in their last ten games.

Hawks won six of their last nine games with Washington, three of last four played here. Four of last six series games went over. Wizards won six of last seven games (6-0-1 vs spread); they’re 6-4 vs spread in last ten road games. Over is 4-1-1 in their last six games. Atlanta won five of last seven games; they’re 9-3 vs spread in last 12 road games. Six of their last seven games went over the total.

Bulls beat Miami (Wade’s old team) twice this season, by 3-5 points; Heat won three of last four visits to Windy City. Underdogs are 5-3 vs spread in last eight series games. Under is 7-3 in last ten series games. Heat won its last five games (4-1 vs spread); they’re 3-5 in last eight games as a road underdog. Chicago is 4-6 in its last ten games, 1-5 vs spread in last six games as a home favorite. Three of their last four games stayed under.

Spurs won their last five games with New Orleans (3-2 vs spread), but they lost three of last four visits to Bourbon Street. Under is 6-2-1 in last nine series games. San Antonio won its last five games, covered its last four; they’re 13-8 as road favorites. Over is 7-1 in their last eight games. New Orleans lost four of its last six games, but is 6-3 in last nine home games- they’re 5-3 as a home underdog. Last four Pelican games went over the total.

Memphis/Portland split their last eight games; Portland is 5-2-1 vs spread in those games. Grizzlies lost two of last three visits here, losing by 19-7 points. Three of last four series games stayed under total. Memphis lost three of last five games; they’re 3-5-1 vs spread in last nine road games. Portland won its last two games; they’re 4-5 vs spread in last nine home games. Three of their last four games stayed under total.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Top 25 roundup: No. 3 Gonzaga remains unbeaten
By The Sports Xchange

SPOKANE, Wash. -- Gonzaga's Nigel Williams-Goss nearly had as many field goals as San Diego in the No. 3 Bulldogs' 79-43 victory Thursday night in Spokane, Wash.
Williams-Goss made 11 of 15 field goal attempts and finished with 25 points. The Toreros (10-11, 3-6 West Coast Conference) made 16 of 50 from the field and 5 of 20 from 3-point range.
Gonzaga (21-0, 9-0) was also led by Johnathan Williams' 13 points and 12 rebounds and Zach Collins' 10 points on 5-of-5 shooting from the field. The Bulldogs, the nation's last unbeaten team, shot 53.1 percent from the field despite converting only 6 for 30 from 3-point range.
Olin Carter III led San Diego with 12 points on 5-of-12 shooting. Brett Bailey, who averaged 17.4 points before Thursday, was limited to five on 2-of-12 shooting from the field.

No. 7 Arizona 79, Washington State 62
TUCSON, Ariz. -- Allonzo Trier scored 17 points in his season home debut and Lauri Markkanen had a double-double to help the Wildcats pull away late from the Cougars en route to their 13th straight victory.
Trier, who returned Saturday at UCLA after missing the first 19 games because of an NCAA suspension, added a career-high seven assists. Markkanen, a 7-foot freshman, drained 4 of 7 from 3-point range and scored 16 points to go with 13 rebounds.
Arizona (19-2, 8-0 Pac-12) ended the game with a 23-9 run. Conor Clifford scored 19 points for Washington State (10-10, 3-5).

No. 9 North Carolina 91, Virginia Tech 72
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. -- Justin Jackson scored 26 points as the Tar Heels used sharp outside shooting and dominance in the lane to pound the Hokies.
Joel Berry's 15 points and Kennedy Meeks' 15 points and 14 rebounds also contributed to the rout as North Carolina (19-3, 7-1 ACC) pushed its winning streak to seven games. North Carolina made a season-best 14 shots from 3-point range (30 attempts) and held a 43-22 advantage in rebounding.
Seth Allen scored 19 points, Justin Robinson added 17 and Zach LeDay had 12 for Virginia Tech (15-5, 4-4).

No. 10 Oregon 73, Utah 67
SALT LAKE CITY -- The Ducks improved to 8-0 in the Pac-12 for the first time in school history with a victory over the Utes.
Dillon Brooks returned after missing one game with a sprained foot to score a team-high 19 points as Oregon (19-2, 8-0) won its eighth meeting with Utah (14-6, 5-3).
Jordan Bell added 15 points and Dylan Ennis scored 13 as Oregon extended its school record to 17 straight wins. Kyle Kuzma had 18 to lead Utah.

No. 19 Cincinnati 86, No. 24 Xavier 78
CINCINNATI -- Jacob Evans scored 21 points and Troy Caupain added 16 as the Bearcats ended a three-game losing skid to their crosstown rivals.
Cincinnati (18-2, 7-0 American Athletic Conference) outmuscled the Musketeers on the boards, finishing with a 42-33 advantage including 19-9 on the offensive end. The Bearcats also had a 30-3 advantage on second-chance points against a Xavier team that led the Big East and ranked 15th nationally in rebounding margin.
Xavier (14-6, 4-3 Big East) lost despite a 40-point performance by Trevon Bluiett, who went 9 for 11 from 3-point range.

No. 21 Saint Mary's 66, San Francisco 46
MORAGA, Calif. -- Emmett Naar and Calvin Hermanson scored 18 points apiece as the Gaels continued their dominance over their Bay Area rival.
Saint Mary's (18-2, 8-1 West Coast Conference) has won six straight against the Dons and 23 of the past 24 meetings. The Dons have lost 14 straight games on Saint Mary's home court.
Jock Landale added 13 points for Saint Mary's, and Charles Minlend led San Francisco (14-8, 4-5) with 13 points. The Gaels broke away from a 34-34 tie early in the second half by scoring 14 straight points in a span of 2:14.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

NCAAB

Friday’s games

Milwaukee won couple of close games last week, after starting year 5-14; Panthers are 0-4 on Horizon road, losing by 1-9-6-14 points; their last road win was Dec 5 at Montana State. Detroit is 3-16 vs D-I teams; they’re 1-2 at home in Horizon, losing by 11-13 points, with only win over Youngstown by 16. Milwaukee won four of its last six games with Detroit, but lost last two visits here by 16-14 points, in series where home side won last four series games. Horizon League home favorites of 3 or less points are 1-5 vs spread this year.

Columbia won three of its last four games, splitting pair with Cornell to open Ivy League play; Lions are 2-4 at home vs D-I opponents- they’re #254 experience team with new coach that is giving his bench the #51 minutes in country. Dartmouth is 3-12, losing last three games by 4-16-14 points; two of their three wins came on road, at LIU/Bryant. Columbia is 8-4 in last 12 games with Dartmouth; they swept Big Green by 17-19 points LY. Teams split last four series games played here. Ivy League home favorites are 2-3-1 vs spread.

Harvard won eight of last nine D-I games, sweeping pair over Dartmouth by 16-14 points to open Ivy League play; Crimson is #338 experience team that is 4-2 on road, with SU wins at Boston College/Houston. Cornell split pair with Columbia to open its Ivy sked; Big Red is 4-12 vs D-I teams, losing four of last five; they’re starting three sophs and a junior. Harvard starts two sophs and a freshman, so two young teams. Harvard won 10 of its last 12 games with Cornell, winning five of last six visits to Ithaca.

Yale won 75-74 at Brown LW,, despite being -9 in turnovers and down 12 points at half. Yale is 11-2 in last 13 series games, winning last five, by 18-4-9-1-24 points. Bulldogs are 5-0 at home this season, but three of five foes are ranked outside top 300- their best home wins are over Lehigh/Albany. Brown lost four of last five games but they did win at Penn; Brown is 0-5 vs teams ranked in top 125, losing by 29-7-38-2-31 points. Bears lost last six visits here, by 8-4-12-7-4-9 points. Ivy League favorites of 7+ points are 1-3-1 vs spread.

Valparaiso won its last five games overall, winning last three home games, by 7-24-31 points; Crusaders hold teams to 42.3% inside arc, are also best rebounding team in Horizon. Wright State swept Valparaiso LY, winning as underdogs of 8.5 and 14 points. Raiders won four of last six series games, winning two of last three visits here. Wright won its last three games, scoring 88 pts/game; they’re 2-2 on Horizon road, losing by 19 at Oakland, 17 at Green Bay. Horizon League home favorites of 8+ points are 6-5 vs spread.

Illinois-Chicago is 4-3 in Horizon this year, after being 23-87 the previous seven years. Flames are 2-2 at home win in Horizon, with wins over Detroit/Milwaukee by 14 points each. Northern Kentucky lost three of last four games overall; they’re 1-3 on Horizon road, losing last three away games, by 11-9-10 points. UIC is holding teams to 28.8% on arc; UNK shoots 39.2% from there. Home side won both Northern Kentucky-UIC games LY; Flames won by a hoop here, lost at UNK in OT. Horizon League home favorites of 3 or less points are 1-5 vs spread this year.

Oakland lost three of last four games, allowing 81.8 pts/game; Grizzlies are 2-2 at home in league games but lost last two to Detroit/Cleveland St., both big upsets. Green Bay won seven of last nine D-I games; they’re 4-1 at home in Horizon, with three wins by 9+ points and an upset loss to Youngstown State. Oakland won three of last four games with Green Bay, winning last two meetings here by 3-18 points. Grizzlies scored 111 points in both series games LY. Horizon League home favorites of 8+ points are 6-5 vs spread.

VCU lost two of last three games but they pounded LaSalle in last game, leading 42-16 at half. Rams are 3-0 at home in A-14, winning by 17-30-38 points. Dayton won eight of last nine games with only loss by 12 at UMass; Flyers won last three games, by 19-16-21 points. VCU is 3-2 in A-14 games with Dayton, last three of which were decided by 6 or less points. Teams split two games played here. A-14 home favorites of 5 or less points are 5-7 vs spread. These are two best defensive teams in A-14, teams #2-3 in league at forcing turnovers.

Siena won five of last six games after starting season 4-11; Saints are 4-0 at home in MAAC, winning home tilts by 7-2-7-10 points. Iona won its last three games, scoring 87.3 pts/game; Gaels 2-3 on MAAC road, winning at St Peter’s/Manhattan. Siena is turning ball over 20.8% of time in MAAC play, worst in league. Iona is 12-2 in last 14 games with Siena, winning last six series games on this floor; Gaels beat Saints in last two MAAC tourneys, both in Albany. MAAC home favorites of 4 or less points are 5-7 vs spread.

Monmouth won its last six games, is 5-1 at home in MAAC with only loss to Rider- its home wins are by 6-18-7-11-42 points. Hawks force turnovers 21.2% of time in league. Quinnipiac lost last four road games, by 6-4-7-10 points. Monmouth won its last three games with Quinnipiac by 14-15-19 points, after they had lost 10 of previous 11 series games; Monmouth beat Bobcats 91-72 at home on Dec 1 in first meeting this year, making 14-31 on arc, forcing 18 turnovers. Double digit home favorites are 3-6-1 vs spread in MAAC games this season.

Weber State won 85-73 at Idaho State two nights ago, in completion of game that had been suspended due to a leaky roof with Weber leading 13-2 early on. Weber is 14-3 in its last 17 games with Idaho State; Bengals lost last ten visits to Ogden, but three of last six were by 6 or less points. Weber hit 14-30 on arc Wednesday; they’re 6-1 in Big Sky, winning only two home games by 25-3 points. ISU lost eight of last nine games, but only win was on road at Northern Colorado. Double digit home favorites are 9-3 vs spread in Big Sky games this season.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Friday
By Mike Dempsey

California Chrome was installed as the 6-5 morning line favorite for Saturday’s $12 million Pegasus World Cup Invitational (G1), but it looks as if horseplayers are not too keen on his outside draw and Arrogate is taking more action in early betting.

Arrogate is down to -125 in advanced wagering while California Chrome has drifted up to +125.

There is a short run to the first turn at Gulfstream Park at the 1 1/8 mile distance, putting California Chrome at a disadvantage.

Arrogate drew the rail, which may not be much better as there is some speed to his outside, which may force the hand of his jockey Mike Smith to avoid getting caught in behind runners going into the first turn.

Noble Bird has taken some action, down to +1600. The Mark Casse trainee figures to be the pacesetter and has run some big numbers. He won the Fayette (G2) in October with a 109 Beyer Speed Figure and earned a 110 winning the Pimlico Special (G3) last May.

Neolithic is currently at odds of +2000 and seems to be the “wise guy” runner in the Pegasus field. He was an impressive winner versus first level allowance foes in his last outing after a second in the Discovery (G3). His last two Beyers are 101 and 100.

As I write this on Thursday evening I still have a few hours of handicapping to do on Saturday’s 12-race card that features seven stakes and plenty of full fields.

I will have my full card report along with my selections and analysis for the Pegasus World Cup available by Friday afternoon.

Latest Wagering Odds for the Pegasus World Cup
Arrogate -125
California Chrome +125
Eragon +5500
Keen Ice +2000
Neolithic +2000
Semper Fortis +4000
Shaman Ghost +2800
War Story +5500
Prayer For Relief +12000
Noble Bird +1600
War Envoy +15000
Breaking Lucky +2800


Here is the opening race from Gulfstream Park to get the day off to a good start:

GP Race 1 Alw $50,000 (12:05 ET)
2 E Z's Mistress 7-2
4 Loving Valentina 8-5
3 Faith N Hope 5-1
7 Hello Juliet 9-2

Analysis: E Z's Mistress tracked the early pace and finished gamely in a runner up finish last out for a $35,000 tag, beaten a half-length while nearly seven lengths clear of the rest of the field in the effort. She was an impressive gate to wire winner three back in her second career start at GP West earning a solid number. She has just four starts under her belt and appears to have more upside than the chalk in here.

Loving Valentina took 11 tries to break her maiden and then she reeled off three straight wins against $16,000 foes. She was claimed out of her last outing by the Navarro barn that is 22% winners first off the claim. She won going a mile in the slop last out but her first three sins all came in sprints. She is the logical one to bet but her price is going to be very much on the light side here.

Wagering
WIN: #2 to win at 5-2 or better.
EX: 2,4 / 2,3,4,7
TRI: 2,4 / 2,3,4,7 / 1,2,3,4,7

Today’s Featured Race of the Day from Gulfstream Park:

GP Race 8 Clm $12,500N2L (4:02 ET)
7 Money Market 3-1
8 Souper True 6-1
1 Command Peter 2-1
2 Proud Enough 4-1

Analysis: Money Market is back on dirt after checking in fifth last out on turf against $16,000 non-winners of two. The gelding had to steady breaking about three furlongs out and finished evenly. Two back the gelding set the early fractions and held on to the runner up spot. His maiden score came on the fake stuff but willing to give him another look on dirt as he catches a weak looking group. The Walsh barn is 19% winners (with a +ROI) moving runners from turf to dirt.

Souper True was not a threat in a 10th place finish last out in the same race our top picks exits. He is better on dirt and ran solid numbers at Philly three and four back versus tougher. Plesa hits at a 27% clip (with a +ROI) moving runners from turf to dirt. His maiden score came in the mud at Pimlico for a $40,000 tag. The surface switch will suit this gelding.

Wagering
WIN: #7 to win at 3-1 or better.
EX: 7,8 / 1,2,7,8
TRI: 7,8 / 1,2,7,8 / 1,2,5,7,8


Live Longshots:
These are price plays for exotic players looking to find a couple of extra contenders to use in their trifecta and superfecta wagers. Or for those with smaller bankrolls, you might want to get in a small win-place wager.

Gulfstream Park
R3: #7 Dadandi 10-1
R4: 32 Mo Cash 8-1
R5: #9 Xanto 8-1
R6: #3 I’m Majestic 12-1
R7: #1 Conquest Rapiduno 10-1
R7: #5 Guantanamera 12-1
R9: #2 Greenhorn 8-1
R11: #12 Giannino 12-1
R11: Crazy Frank C 8-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Meadowlands

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

Race 6 - Post: 8:55 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 94 - Purse:$13000 - N/W $11,500
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 8 CLASSICAL ANNIE 9/2
# 2 WATKINS 3/1
# 3 B YOYO 2/1

CLASSICAL ANNIE looks nice to best this group. This affair could very well be controlled by this mare. One look at the avgerage speed figure will prove that. This standardbred looks very good considering the high class ratings. We wouldn't recommend tossing out of any exotics. Worth considering in this event if only for the very good speed rating recorded in the last race. WATKINS - That 94 TrackMaster Speed Rating clocked in the most recent race puts this solid standardbred in the mix in this event. With a strong driver, who has won at a good 20 percent rate the past month, this has to be one of the best plays. B YOYO - He has been racing well and the speed ratings are among the top in the field. This harness racer has shown us some ability in the past, just look at the 93 average class figure. Should play well for this one.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Miami Valley

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

Race 4 - Post: 7:05 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 81 - Purse:$6500 - N/W $2250 IN LAST 4 STARTS
CONSORTIUM*CHOICES

# 1 TOUCHDOWN AS 2/1
# 6 CAPTAIN GREEDY 3/1
# 2 DEMONS N DIAMONDS 9/2

Look no further than TOUCHDOWN AS as the wager this time. Could very well be the most respectable in the field of horses here, showing formidable numbers of late. Avg speed is a solid 87. Heads into this race with really good TrackMaster class rankings as compared to the pack - worth a look. Worth considering in here if only for the great TrackMaster Speed Rating recorded in the last contest. CAPTAIN GREEDY - Win clip for this driver-trainer is a sparkling 29 percent - magnificent likelihood. Considered a solid wager based solely on his high win figure. DEMONS N DIAMONDS - The handicapping group gives this solid standardbred a very good chance to win this one, class ratings are tops in the pack.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Laurel

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


Race 9 - Claiming - 8.0f on the Dirt. Purse: $15000 Class Rating: 73

FOR FILLIES AND MARES FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD WHICH HAVE NEVER WON TWO RACES. WEIGHT, 124 LBS. MAIDENS ALLOWED 5 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000, FOR EACH $250 TO $4,500 2 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 6 WEATHERURNOT 9/2

# 5 CHAMPAGNE TIME 2/1

# 3 STREET MIZ 6/1

WEATHERURNOT is the most competitive bet in this race. Is a solid contender - given the 59 speed rating from her most recent race. She has been running solidly recently while recording solid speed figures. This mare has a good win percentage in dirt route races. CHAMPAGNE TIME - Has been running in the most competitive company of the group as of late. Might best this group here, showing very strong figs of late. STREET MIZ - Must be given a chance - I like the figures from the last contest. In fine fettle, and coming back almost immediately again this time out.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Sunland Park

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


Race 1 - Maiden - 300y on the Dirt. Purse: $20600 Class Rating: 83

QUARTER HORSE 300Y, FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 122 LBS.


RECOMMENDED*CHOICES


# 1 CLONDIKE 3/1

# 12 RC SHOLO UNO 15/1

# 8 CORONA CRUISIN CHICK 5/1

My selection in here is CLONDIKE. Should compete strongly in the pace contest which bodes well with this field. Looks decent for the conditions of this contest today, showing solid figures in short races recently. Has to be given a shot based on the strong Equibase Speed Figure earned in the last race. RC SHOLO UNO - Might wake up with Lasix change (with second time Lasix) today. Moreno has one of the best winning percentages in this group with entries running at this distance and surface. CORONA CRUISIN CHICK - Vaunts solid Equibase Speed Figs on average overall when measured up against the rest of this group of horses in this race. Has been running in the most competitive company of the field lately.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Penn National - Race #2 - Post: 6:27pm - Maiden Claiming - 8.3 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $16,300 Class Rating: 80

Rating:

#7 HIBERNIA FIRE (ML=5/2)


HIBERNIA FIRE - Sub-par try last time out at Laurel was due to the off-going (he finished seventh). Expect better right here without the off-track conditions.

Vulnerable Contenders: #4 PATH DEPENDENT (ML=8/5), #1 JUMP STREET HERO (ML=3/1), #3 MAD MEL (ML=8/1),

PATH DEPENDENT - This steed hasn't been near the victor at the wire recently. This gelding hasn't been getting the job done as the favorite. JUMP STREET HERO - Finished third in his most recent effort with a run-of-the-mill speed fig. When I look at today's class figure, it would take an improved performance to score after that in this bunch.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Bet on #7 HIBERNIA FIRE to win if you can get at least 1/1 odds

EXACTA WAGERS:

Pass

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

None

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Santa Anita - Race #6 - Post: 3:30pm - Claiming - 6.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $14,000 Class Rating: 91

Rating:

#1 JUSTONEMORETHING (ML=5/1)
#7 AIKAU (ML=3/1)


JUSTONEMORETHING - Got to appreciate a good work horse. This gelding's last workout was second fastest of the day for the distance. Have to like the way Avalos has raced this gelding back into shape off the layoff. Animal is well spotted in this sprint and I think he'll run well today. AIKAU - Gelding is a few starts into a comeback here. Should give a top effort today. You should disregard that last clash at Santa Anita on a track listed as good where he finished outside the top 3. Should do well today without the off-track conditions.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 MADELYN'S WILD MAX (ML=7/2), #5 CINCO DE MARIO (ML=4/1), #4 OUTTHINK'EM (ML=5/1),

MADELYN'S WILD MAX - This gelding hasn't had any strong victories in sprint contests in the last sixty days. Earned a mediocre speed fig in the last race in an $8,000 Claiming race on January 2nd. Doubtful to see an improved performance off of that figure. CINCO DE MARIO - This racer hasn't won at this track. This less than sharp equine ran a disappointing speed rating last time around the track. He shouldn't show signs of improvement and will probably suffer defeat in today's race running that figure. OUTTHINK'EM - The strong exertion in the last race may knock this gelding off stride today.



STRAIGHT WAGERS:

Putting our cash on #1 JUSTONEMORETHING to win. Have to have odds of at least 5/2 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:

Box [1,7]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:

Skip

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Aqueduct

RACE #3 - AQUEDUCT - 1:18 PM EASTERN POST

6.0 FURLONGS WINTERIZED INNER DIRT TRACK FOUR YEARS OLD AND UPWARD $35,000.00 CLAIMING $42,000.00 PURSE

#6 LORD COMMANDER
#4 TIMBER
#2 DR. SHANE
#1 DARK ROAST

#6 LORD COMMANDER is the overall speed leader in this claiming field sprinting at this afternoon's distance of 6.0 furlongs on the dirt, and has produced "POWER RUN PERFORMANCES" in four straight, hitting the board in each of his last three "adventures," facing better company in both of his last two starts. Jockey Jose Ortiz and Trainer Todd Pletcher send him to the post ... they've hit the board with 53% of their entries saddled as a team to date. #4 TIMBER, the pace profile leader has hit the board in three of his respective last four outings, including a win in his last start.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Friday 1/27 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF

Race 1 - $40,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

PICK 5: 1,3,7/6/1,2,6/1,6,8,10/1,3,9 = $21.60

EARLY PICK 4: 1,6,8,10/1,3,9/6,8/4,6 = $48

LATE PICK 4: 2,4,7/4/5/1,2,4,5,8 = $15

MEET STATS: 88 - 354 / $496.10

BEST BETS: 14 - 33 / $54.50

SPOT PLAYS: 11 - 32 / $56.60

Best Bet: AWESOMENESS (2nd)

Spot Play: BET YA (7th)


Race 1

(7) BACK YARD BABY was a winner when last racing in this class in December and she takes most of her wins on class drops; top call. (3) WILDCAT MAGIC drops to the bottom level and she is another that does most of her damage when getting class relief. Expect a big try. (1) VOODOO CHARM lost all hope at the start last week but she can be part of this if she behaves. (4) TEMPUS SEELSTER raced better last week while setting solid splits. She can factor here.

Race 2

(6) AWESOMENESS powered away last week despite being hard-used early in the mile. He will be very tough to beat here at a low price. (1) HOOTER SHOOTER can pass most of these late and he could offer a bit of value for the exacta. (8) CLOUSEAU HANOVER is another that will be passing horses late, but he could find himself sitting last at the 1/2. (3) HUGHGETTHECREDIT will be a factor early, but he could get scorched by the choice again.

Race 3

(1) LABATT HANOVER won in a non-winners of three class in the fall down south and he brings a good qualifier to the table here in what should be a good spot for him; top call. (6) GROUPIE DOLL wired similar last week; She will be the one to catch again. (2) LITTLE STUIE was just short last time he raced in this class; using. (10) WORK THAT MAGIC is worth a look at a big price here. Notice she holds what is by far the fastest lifetime mark.

Race 4

(1) DOUBLE OLIVES qualified okay over a track rated five seconds off and she moves to the Zeron barn here; slight nod in a race that looks wide-open. (6) ONYOURMARKNATAVA should contend here coming off a sharp win at Flamboro. (8) BALINSKA HANOVER raced decently from the 10-hole when last seen here and she is worth inclusion in exotic wagers. (10) FIRE WATCH can contend if she can beat a few of them off the gate here.

Race 5

(9) DOCS SAUSALITO makes her first start for Auciello and faces easier here. She should be tough despite the time off. (3) KAYS SHADOW steps up off a sharp win and she should contend here too; she is in top form. (1) ACEFOURTYFOUR ALEX can take a slice here off a following trip and she could win with some luck. (6) CAYO LOCO will be passing rivals late; use her on the bottom of vertical bets.

Race 6

(6) WAY OUTTA HERE qualified decently over a very sloppy track and that he stayed flat is encouraging. If he behaves, he should take these. (8) SEVERUS HANOVER retains Jamieson here and he might get him a much-needed breather this time; using. (1) PRESQUILLE rarely wins, but he is in good form now and can share here. (5) JUSTASMALLTOWNGIRL faces easier here and is in with an upset chance.

Race 7

(4) BET YA missed checks two straight weeks, so she gets to drop a couple of classes. This is when she typically does her best work. (6) GREYSTONE LADYLIKE made two moves last time vs. a sharp winner; using. (5) MAPLEA finally got a win last week when she was driven more aggressively. She can take a slice here. (3) POP GOES THE WEASEL is worth a look on the class drop here.

Race 8

(4) SENIOR K couldn't chase down a determined leader last week. Perhaps moving inside will give him an edge to turn the tables. (7) LYON SANDS was full-value for a sharp win last week and he is a must-use again. (2) OHIO LARRY can improve in his second start of the year and is in with an upset chance. (3) EMPTYTHETILL should be good for another minor placing here.

Race 9

(4) STORMONT KATE takes a massive class drop and owner/trainer/driver Richardson will no doubt be looking to bottom out this field. (2) FERRISWHEEL JUNKIE can close in late for a share here if he stays flat and he offers some exacta value here. (6) BAGS FOR ALL fits okay in this class. She can make the ticket here off a following trip near the front. (10) UTOPIA will be passing horses in the back 1/2, but post 10 dooms him to a smaller share.

Race 10

(5) SANDBETWEENURTOES is the current queen of the mares pacing division here. She will be very hard to beat here. (2) P L HURRICANE figures to get a similar trip as last week and complete a puny exacta. (6) SAYITALL BB can lay closer here and make the Tri. (1) ARTISTIC MADISON could finish higher if she can start better, but the 1-hole makes that tough in many cases at this track.

Race 11

(8) DRIVINGTHEDRAGON N raced well last week now she switches to Allard's barn here; top call. (5) BAROCKEY should get a better trip here leaving from the middle of the gate; using. (4) NAUGHTY LADY B stayed in last time and she had some pace late. She should take at least a smaller share here. (2) THREE DREAMS should take a small share, as has been here custom lately. (1) MISS BABE DELIGHT moves inside and can close late for a share.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Meadowlands: Friday 1/27 Analysis
By Derick Giwner

DRF

Race 1 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Five Pool

Race 3 - $25,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Race 7 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

MEET STATS: 90 - 309 / $479.40 (-$148.60)

BEST BETS: 11 - 25 / $45.00 (-$5.00)

Best Bet: ROBOCALL HANOVER (2nd)

Spot Play: KEYSTONE ACE (9th)


Race 1

(1) MOSTINTERESTINGMAN finished up willingly in his recent qualifier. Perhaps all this guy needs is a switch to the big track to cure his breaking issues. (7) EYESEENOW has speed and plenty of form but can’t seem to get over the hump lately. (8) THREEUPTHREEDOWN scored at first asking for new connections. He gets a tougher assignment this week.

Race 2

(4) ROBOCALL HANOVER had a tough trip last week as the 1-2 chalk and couldn’t last the mile. This looks like a great spot to make amends. (7) BIG BAD BEACH swept the field from last impressively; major threat again. (1) THEFOOLALWAYSROCKS is a fresh shipper from Dover with a hint of form.

Race 3

(9) ASPEN CALIFORNIA put in a decent qualifier with trainer Harry Landy in the bike. They call on Brett Miller now (a great sign). I expect this guy to be ready to roll. (4) LAZURUS picked up his game last week and should be hustled away in the early stages. (3) CASSA’S IMAGE was going added distance races at Yonkers and should be plenty fit to handle the big track. (6) BUFFALINO HANOVER had every chance last week and hung; using underneath.

Race 4

(4) JLS BAD MOON RISIN ships in off two runaway scores at Dover since moving into the Dylan Davis barn. I don’t see any reason why he can’t keep rolling. (2) GOLDEN SON has also posted consecutive scores for a new barn; must use. (1) BATTLE MAGE weakened in deep stretch last time on a track that was favoring off-the-pace types. (6) HERE COMES SAM looks good if you ignore the break last time out.

Race 5

I was between (2) INTHEBLINKOFANEYE & (3) GAMBLER’S TALE with the intention of choosing the horse that Jonathan Roberts picked. That all changed when Roberts choose #3 and Yannick Gingras became the pilot on #2. Intheblinkofaneye has a good history here and showed some life last week. With Yannick at the helm, he can show up with a big mile. Gambler’s Tale comes off a pair of even efforts and gets class relief now. (4) WAR-N-MUNN is another stepping down the class ladder; hard to toss. (1) LUCKY MAN is racing well but facing tougher this week.

Race 6

(3) B YOYO has been flip-flopping between good efforts and break of late. In a field with a fair amount of early speed, the race should set up nicely if he behaves. (8) CLASSICAL ANNIE raced very well considering the early break last time. If Gingras can work out a trip, she is capable of winning. (2) WATKINS raced well while fifth last time and faces a softer group now.

Race 7

(1) WINDSONG ILLUSION drops down to the level of his last win. The defection of Brett Miller should help our price. (10) MIDFIELD MAGIC has the early speed needed to overcome the worst post and an aggressive driver at the controls this week. (5) ROSE RUN QUICKLEY had no issues in his first start with hobbles added and did lure Miller off my top choice. (8) FLYING ISA N is down in class and merits some respect on that angle alone.

Race 8

(7) UF DRAGON’S QUEEN is staying in the same class where she was a solid third last week, but in reality this field is much weaker from top to bottom. I’ll stick with this sharp mare. (9) ABBIJADE HANOVER tracked the top choice’s cover and finished just ahead of her last week; post hurts. (8) THE SUMMER WIND raced okay in her first start off the bench and could easily show more now. (5) CAROBBEAN PACETRY is better down in class but capable of pulled off the upset given the right trip.

Race 9

(6) KEYSTONE ACE double-drops in class in his return to The Meadowlands. He has a major shot to win here at a decent price. (8) CINCINNATI MISS comes off a decent effort and now drops down a notch. (9) WINEMASTER HANOVER continues to change hands at the claiming box and win; post hurts tonight. (4) ITS CHOCOLATE TIME could be competitive given the right trip.

Race 10

(1) LAST DRAGON gets a much needed class break and adds Gingras to the team. Veteran is in a winning spot. (4) DAVID’S DREAM also moves down the ladder and gets a positive driver change. (5) ILIKETHEMTRASHY comes off a nice effort and may be rounding into form.

Race 11

(6) ANAFFAIRTOREMEMBER has been facing much better foes in recent weeks and now switches to Brett Miller. (4) WORLD CUP tends to bring an honest effort every week, but he hasn’t been able to get over the top lately. (8) CAN DO scored with the addition of Gingras last time and now faces a more difficult task. (3) LONG STORY SHORT is a classy grinding trotter that is always capable of surprising.

Race 12

(1) BLUSH HANOVER drops down and doesn’t exactly face the sharpest field; no excuses in this spot. (3) BULLVILLE MAGGIE couldn’t last on the engine on a night where speed wasn’t doing well; clear threat. (4) BETTER SAID picks up Callahan this week. (6) MAC’S SECURE closed well last time and could be a trip player.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 1/27 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF

MEET STATS: 11 - 61 / 65.60

BEST BETS: 2 - 6 / $7.20

Best Bet: NATIONAL DEBT (2nd)

Spot Play: ARDIE B SPEED (7th)


Race 1

(7) ETHAN HANOVER was sent down the road in his last try for all the glory and has every right to make it two straight. (1) SHADIOS finally leaves the outside slot for door number one; big threat. (2) JC KINGDOM came very close to getting the job done last out; don't overlook.

Race 2

(2) NATIONAL DEBT moves down in class and has a better post to work with. Has the back class to take these to task for all the cash. (4) WYNBERG COURAGE N has been sluggish of late, but the drop in condition should put him right in the mix. (3) FOCUS POWER Dover invader has some speed to contend with these.

Race 3

(1) MUSTANG MACH N took the pocket route on his way to victory last out and now the 10-year-old pro moves to the fence; the pick. (2) ANNUITY swung very wide at the 3/4 pole and mowed them down to an easy score last time around; contender despite the rise in class. (7) MAINLAND KEY N is very consistent in the exacta picture and must be considered in all the exotic slots.

Race 4

(5) MEETYOUATMIDNIGHT Gelding is on a roll scoring his second straight victory last week and is very capable of the hat trick if he repeats his last two efforts. (2) LUCKY MCTRUCKY drops a notch in class and that should put this veteran right in the mix. (1) INTREPID HALL Pocket-rocket victory in his latest from door number two and now moves to the fence; not out of this.

Race 5

(1) ADDWATER was sharp last time out in his first try on the rise in class so this 8-year-old pacer is good enough to get the job done with Bartlett at the helm. (3) ART OF ILLUSION gets post relief and figures to make some noise through the stretch. (7) TALKING BLUES closed well to nail down the show spot in his last try; could have a say in the outcome.

Race 6

(6) DELIGHTFUL DRAGON has hit the board in her last four starts and this 6-year-old mare is in fine form to greet the cameraman tonight for pictures. (8) BETTOR N BETTER took charge right from the bell and never looked back; dangerous. (4) HIDDEN LAND fits with these but will need a better trip to make an impact; quite possible.

Race 7

(3) ARDIE B SPEED might have been used up in the early stages last out so with a better trip he can be the boss over this group. (2) TWINSPEAK did not race badly in his last trip to the post; could move forward. (5) NOBLES FINESSE'S last two starts were down the road victories; the one to catch despite leaving the fence.

Race 8

(5) TYRA put in a nice rally for the show spot in her last try and she seems to be moving in the right direction; gets the call. (2) FOR THE LADIES N just got up for win honors last time around against lesser company; don't overlook. (1) SO NICE gets post relief and that should help her cause; maybe.

Race 9

(2) ALHAMBRA was sitting a 3-hole trip, pulled out at the 3/4 pole and held on for the victory last time out. Mare's form seems to be good enough to take another. (3) OUR ELS DREAM N has tactical speed and is very consistent; dangerous. (4) CAVIART CARI ANN did not fire in her last trip but she has good speed to take these far; watch out.

Race 10

(4) STRINGS was wide approaching the 3/4 pole and put in a mild rally for the show spot in her return to Yonkers. There's a good chance she can move forward against these; we shall see. (2) MILKY WAY RAE leaves the 8-hole for a cozy post and gets the services of Brennan; main danger. (3) KNOW IT ALL gets serious post relief and that should help her cause.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Spot Plays

For Friday

TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE

Aqueduct (5th) Southern Union, 5-1
(8th) Play Me a Memory, 7-2


Charles Town (2nd) Hand of the King, 7-2
(5th) Inner Fire, 7-2


Delta Downs (2nd) Blind Faith, 4-1
(5th) Ty’s Bandit, 6-1


Fair Grounds (4th) Hawk’s Image, 6-1
(8th) Blossomed in Time, 7-2


Golden Gate Fields (1st) Traffic Ticket, 7-2
(6th) Hotbob, 3-1


Gulfstream Park (3rd) Twas Nero, 4-1
(6th) Gray Nile, 3-1


Laurel Park (6th) Tiz Majesty, 3-1
(9th) Street Miz, 6-1


Oaklawn Park (2nd) Vested Creek, 7-2
(9th) Canadian Star, 5-1


Penn National (1st) Letmebethe One, 3-1
(8th) Perceval, 3-1


Sam Houston (6th) My Expectations, 7-2
(8th) Dads Divine, 4-1


Santa Anita (4th) Tuscany Beauty, 4-1
(6th) Aikau, 3-1


Tampa Bay Downs (5th) Papa Pablo, 3-1
(7th) American Merlot, 6-1


Turfway Park (6th) Grace’s Devil, 7-2
(9th) One Buck Roma, 7-2

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Friday’s six-pack

— Ravens’ kicker Justin Tucker made a 75-yard FG at practice for the Pro Bowl.

— North Carolina 91, Virginia Tech 72— Tar Heels had 16 offensive rebounds……in the first half.

—*Oklahoma City big guy Enes Kanter broke his arm Thursday when he punched a chair. No bueno.

— West Virginia’s senior forward Nathan Adrian is the first high school player from Morgantown to get a basketball scholarship from the Mountaineers since the late 50’s.

— Packers told offensive assistant Tom Clements to take a hike; they let his contract expire, a nice way of saying he is fired.

— Felix Hernandez had $1.5M in jewelry stolen from his home in Seattle in November; the thieves were recently captured and most of the loot recovered.