Friday 10/9/15 service plays chatter/comps/requests & other stuff...

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

At the Gate - Friday
By Mike Dempsey

All the Breeders’ Cup “Win and You’re In” races are now in the books and we are just three weeks away from the two-day championship event at Keeneland on Oct. 30-31.

Saturday’s $500,000 Queen Elizabeth II Challenge Cup (G1) at Keeneland could produce a starter or two for the Breeders’ Cup Filly & Mare Turf (G1) if the connections want to run back in three weeks’ time.

The filly that would seem likely to fit in the Filly & Mare Turf is Sentiero Italia, who was installed as the 6-5 morning line favorite for Saturday’s race, which is at 1 1/8 miles and restricted to three-year-old fillies.

The Kiaran McLaughlin trainee has won four of her six career starts, taking the Lake Placid (G2) and Sands Point (G2) in her last two starts. She will have Joel Rosario back in the irons and will tote 121 pounds facing eight foes.

Trainer Todd Pletcher sends Feathered (5-1), who is coming off a victory against second level optional claimers. The filly won the Edgewood (G2) at Churchill Downs in May and followed that up with runner up finishers in the American Oaks (G1) and Lake George (G2).

Her Emmynency was a game second in her last outing in the Del Mar Oaks (G1), beaten just ¾ of a length for the top spot. She is 8-1 on the morning line.

Blond Me (8-1) made her U.S. debut in the Sands Point and ran a good second, beaten 3 ¾ lengths by Sentiero Italia. She missed winning the Atalanta Stakes (G3) at Sandown Park in her previous outing in a photo and could move forward with a race in the U.S. under her belt.

I will have selections for the QEII along with the $200,000 Knickerbocker (G3) from Belmont Park in tomorrow’s column.

Here is today’s opener from Belmont Park to get the day off to a good start:

BEL Race 1 Md $75,000 (12:55 ET)
#3 Axtell 4-5
#4 Ousby 6-1
#2 Hotinthehamptons 5-1
#1 Brianbakescookies 8-1

Analysis: Axtell is back in the maiden ranks after fading to finish seventh last out in the Kentucky Downs Juvenile going seven furlongs. The colt was a good second two back at Woodbine going six furlongs in his first go on turf. The drop in for a tag may be alarming, but this guy was purchased for just $30,000 so tagged for $75,000 probably is no big deal.

Ousby is one of two Mott firsters in here. The barn usually does not have them fully cranked but did win two races at the Spa with debut runners on the turf. This gelding is by Grade 1 turf winner Shakespeare and the first foal to race out of a Kingmambo mare.

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

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

BEL Race 7 OClm $40,000N2X (4:13 ET)
#6 Saratoga Heater 5-1
#8 Hear the Footsteps 4-1
#7 Special Selection 15-1
#2 Lord of Love 6-1

Analysis: Saratoga Heater tries grass for the first time here as he lands with the underrated Lisa Lewis barn. The gelding is by Temple City (Dynaformer) out of a stakes placed Salt Lake mare, her first foal to race. The gelding did not fire last out after a good third two back at the Spa on the main track. This is not a real tough group of state breds and we should catch a fair price.

Hear the Footsteps cuts back to seven furlongs here after checking in fourth last out form an outside post going two turns. He is a four-time winner over the turf here. He has not won since winning three in a row back in '13 versus tougher.

Wagering
WIN: #6 to win at 7-2 or better.
EX: 6,8 / 2,6,7,8
TRI: 6,8 / 2,6,7,8 / 1,2,6,7,8

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.

Belmont Park
R1: #1 Brianbakescookies 8-1
R5: #7 Perfect Disco 8-1
R6: #2 Love That Kelly 10-1
R7: #7 Special Selection 15-1
R8: #5 Strong Stipulation 12-1

Good luck today!

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Dayton Raceway

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


Race 1 - Post: 6:35 - 1 mile. PACE - Class Rating: 76 - Purse:$3000 - HORSES & GELDINGS N/W $1000 IN LAST 4 STARTS


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 SOUTHWIND MILO 9/2


# 3 STARTIN SOMETHING 5/2


# 2 NOBESTBFOR 3/1


We've got good vibrations SOUTHWIND MILO is going to get the triumph. He has been battling admirably and the TrackMaster Speed Ratings are among the most respectable in the field of starters. STARTIN SOMETHING - Could very well be the most competitive in the bunch here, showing good ratings of late. Average speed is a solid 77. Could be considered in here if only for the really strong TrackMaster Speed Rating achieved in the last gathering. NOBESTBFOR - He has great class numbers, averaging 79. Should be considered for a bet here. Considered a solid wager based solely on his high victory percent.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Chatsworth Consortium at Yonkers Raceway

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


Race 2 - Post: 7:30 - 1 mile. TROT - Class Rating: 92 - Purse:$22500 - CLAIMING ALLOWANCE $40,000 3 YO 50%, 4 YO 25%, F& M 20%


CONSORTIUM CHOICES


Chatsworth Consortium

# 4 PASADENA STAR 6/1


# 5 BRANDOS MUSCLE MAN 7/2


# 7 SOUL TRAIN 20/1


Look no further than PASADENA STAR as the wager here. This race horse will have to be a wager, based on the great driver-trainer win percent. Dube and Robertson have a really strong working relationship. Stellar results from their gatherings. More wins than normal have been achieved by solid standardbreds lining up behind the 4 post at Yonkers Raceway. BRANDOS MUSCLE MAN - The number crunching team noted a bang-up affair out of this entrant last time. Looking for a duplicate of that to win. Overall stats look good. Can't throw him out of the picture. SOUL TRAIN - Deserves a shot given the positive win percentage he sports.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Lone Star Park

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


Race 5 - Maiden Claiming - 330y on the Dirt. Purse: $4600 Class Rating: 75

QUARTER HORSE 330Y, FOR MAIDENS, THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD. THREE YEAR OLDS, 124 LBS.; OLDER, 126 LBS. CLAIMING PRICE $5,000.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 4 MR LOREN 6/5


# 6 SWINGIN SENORITAS 3/1


# 8 AMBERS VERSION 4/1


My choice in here is MR LOREN. Should compete admirably in the early pace battle which bodes well with this group. With a competitive 82 speed fig last time out, will clearly be a factor in this contest. With a nice class figure average of 96, has one of the best class advantages in this field. SWINGIN SENORITAS - With better than average trips to the winner's circle, Ramirez will almost certainly have this gelding in excellent position to win the race. Recorded a sound speed fig in the last race. Can run another good one in this affair. AMBERS VERSION - Handler boasts strong win numbers at this distance and surface. With a decent 62 Equibase Speed Figure last time out, will definitely be a factor in this contest.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Walker Group at Woodbine

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


Race 6 - Maiden Special Weight - 8.0f on the Turf. Purse: $55900 Class Rating: 82

FOR MAIDENS, FILLIES TWO YEARS OLD. WEIGHT, 119 LBS.


RECOMMENDED CHOICES

The Walker Group Picks

# 3 D'ORO PARADISE 5/2


# 8 WIND N WAVES 3/1


# 10 MINDFUL CHATTER 10/1


D'ORO PARADISE is the best bet in this race. Ran a sharp last race. Must be given a shot given the class of races run recently. This trainer has done well recently with entries racing at this distance and surface. WIND N WAVES - Make a note that this one runs with second time Lasix today. She has a good opportunity in this race as conditioner, Carroll, has solid win clip with horses going this distance. MINDFUL CHATTER - Is a solid choice - given the 76 Equibase Speed Figure from her most recent race. Her 70 average has this filly with among the best speed figures in this race.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Gulfstream Park West - Race #5 - Post: 3:27pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Dirt. Purse: $14,000 Class Rating: 75

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#2 JUS FOR FUN (ML=3/1)
#5 TOUGH SKY (ML=6/1)


JUS FOR FUN - Has found a good spot in today's event. TOUGH SKY - You always have to be on the patrol for revenue generating jockey/conditioner combinations; we have it right here.

Vulnerable Contenders: #3 SUM MIDNIGHT STAR (ML=5/2), #8 WHISKEY CURES UGLY (ML=4/1), #6 CRIOLLAS BOY (ML=5/1),

SUM MIDNIGHT STAR - This horse likes to hit the board, but doesn't usually finish first. Keep out of the top spot. WHISKEY CURES UGLY - The race on Sep 19th was versus maiden claimers. Pass on this one this time versus the tougher group. CRIOLLAS BOY - Just can't wager on this entrant. Didn't show me anything positive last race out or on August 28th.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
#2 JUS FOR FUN is the play if we get odds of 3/2 or better

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [2,5]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Pass

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
Skip

SUPER HI 5 WAGERS:
Pass

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by The Turf Club Analysts

Bar

Santa Anita - Race #3 - Post: 2:06pm - Claiming - 8.0 furlongs on the Turf. Purse: $36,000 Class Rating: 90

Rating: Golden DollarGolden DollarGolden Dollar

#8 ABETS ABET (ML=6/1)
#3 TRUE HISTORY (ML=5/2)
#4 SISTER OF MERCY (IRE) (ML=8/1)


ABETS ABET - Spawr had been running this filly at higher levels recently. Did win a $50,000 Claiming race though, on June 12th. Could do it again here. Finished sixth at Del Mar last out. Was close at the end and at odds of 6/1 right here in this race, she looks like a possible contender. I'm optimistic this filly will run well today. Last morning work was 2nd fastest of the day, which tells me she's sharp right now. Filly will add blinkers to the equipment package today. That often leads to an improved performance. This entrant earns a lot of cash per start. I believe she can increase the lifetime total right here in this race. TRUE HISTORY - The rider/trainer duo of Baze and Ellis has a strong return on investment together. Ellis has a very strong win pct in turf routes. This filly should be in shape and ready to win. SISTER OF MERCY (IRE) - This entrant could be tough this time around, especially since Graham rode last time around the track and now should be better acquainted with this one. The return on investment when Graham and Gaines hook up is tremendous. As long as Graham keeps this horse off the pace, I have to believe this one could be a lucky winner. Always beware of the longer priced equine when a trainer has an 'uncoupled' entry in a race.

Vulnerable Contenders: #2 EVO CAMPO (IRE) (ML=7/2), #6 L. A. MAGIC (ML=5/1), #1 REVENUE VIRGINIUS (ML=5/1),

EVO CAMPO (IRE) - This filly probably won't be close at the wire. L. A. MAGIC - 5/1 is not enough of a price to take on most any thoroughbred that has run poorly in back to back efforts. REVENUE VIRGINIUS - This filly finished out of the money on July 17th and wasn't even close last time out either. Doubtful that the rating she earned on August 20th will be enough in this affair.


STRAIGHT WAGERS:
Putting our cash on #8 ABETS ABET to win. Have to have odds of at least 9/2 or better though

EXACTA WAGERS:
Box [3,4,8]

TRIFECTA WAGERS:
Box [3,4,8] Total Cost: $6

SUPERFECTA WAGERS:
[3,4,8] with [3,4,8] with [3,4,6,7,8] with [3,4,6,7,8] Total Cost: $36

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Handicapped by Rick Needham at Belmont Park

RACE #3 - BELMONT PARK - 2:01 PM EASTERN POST

8½ FURLONGS INNER TURF FILLIES AND MARES THREE YEARS OLD AND UPWARD STARTER ALLOWANCE $55,000.00 PURSE

#6 KHALEESI KAT
#4 ANGEL CHOIR
#5 TIZALLHEART
#3 MODUS OPERANDI

#6 KHALEESI KAT has hit the board in "POWER RUN FASHION" in both of her last two outings, including a "POWER RUN WIN" to break her maiden in her 2nd race back. Jockey Junior Alvarado and Trainer Bill Mott send her to the starting gate this afternoon ... they've hit the board with half of their entries saddled as a team to date. #4 ANGEL CHOIR, the morning line favorite ... is the overall speed leader in this field racing at, or about, today's distance of 8½ furlongs on the turf, and has hit the board in three of her last five outings overall, including a "POWER RUN WIN" to break her maiden in her last start.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Balmoral: Friday 10/9 Analysis
By Jeremey Day

DRF HARNESS

Race 9 - $15,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

Best Bet (44 - 68 / $153.60): MOON BAY DANCER (4th)

Spot Play: WESTERN DAME (11th)


Race 1

In a wide open betting race, (6) TAMARIC SMOOCHIE has room to improve coming off a nice maiden breaking score. (8) NO GUN NO FUN paced a couple of nice efforts at this track a few starts back. (10) PRINTSONTHEBEACH raced deceptively well last week but will need to find a way into the race.

Race 2

(2) MORE THAN LIKELY comes off a big win and will be tough to beat with any improvement. (6) POWERFUL PRINCESS lightly raced filly probably has the most upside in the race. (1) SURVIVER DI filly is the sleeper in the race from the rail if she can mind her manners.

Race 3

(6) PARKLANE INDY showed a nice closing burst last week and could like the big track even better. (5) BEST OF DUNE will offer a big price in a field full of question marks. (8) FOX VALLEY ORION gelding finds a weak bunch but has really been struggling to finish his miles; use underneath.

Race 4

(8) MOON BAY DANCER takes a huge drop in competition back in for a tag; big chance. (2) HOOSIERS FANTASY will look to make it three straight wins in against tougher. (1) WILD BERRY MUFFLER gets the best post and was sharp a few back.

Race 5

(2) MAPLE GROVE JOE appears to be on the right track; threat. (3) ALLSTAR-JOSH rarely wins but has been knocking on the door. (10) SWISS MOCHA is saddled by a tough post but is a threat with a good setup.

Race 6

(2) COWGIRL CHIC finds a suspect bunch to gain some confidence. (10) I'M TELLING YOU will offer a big price from a tough post and raced well last out. (4) OUR MISS LEAH gets sent out for capable connections but will need more to hit the top spot.

Race 7

(5) DYLAN ROCKS can beat this bunch with an effort similar to the start prior. (10) RUSSELL L will offer a huge price and can hit the board with a good setup. (1) MIDNIGHT DESTROYER was sharp last out; threat.

Race 8

(9) BOYS ROUND HERE raced huge last week and a similar effort wins by open lengths. If the pacer races like that its lights out. (4) RUNINTHRUDABRIDLE seta a lifetime mark last out but faces much tougher. (7) TORNADO HENRY fits in with this bunch but is best used underneath.

Race 9

(3) FRISKIE FLICKER finds a much softer bunch; fires early. (2) LOVE THIS PLACE is not what she used to be but is capable against this group. (1) ALL PINK mare owns a big burst of speed but will need some racing luck.

Race 10

(8) PISTOPACKINPIPER took heavy tote action early last time out racing gamely. The pacer will offer the best price of the contenders and just needs a smooth trip for a piece. (6) DELIGHT FASHION is the horse to beat but will be a short price; use caution. (2) C NOTE might be starting to turn the corner but is in with a lot tougher.

Race 11

(1) WESTERN DAME four-year-old mare is lightly raced this year and has tons of upside coming off two straight wins. (3) MOLLY GO LIGHTLY should be much closer turning for home and does her best work at the big track. (4) INCREDIBLE FILLY takes a significant drop in class; threat.

Race 12

(6) DADE HALL has been much better for a new barn and finds a weak field. (7) STRUNG OUT gets sent out for capable connections off a lifetime mark. (4) AJ GET'S THE MONEY pacer makes his third start back off the layoff and has room to improve.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Woodbine Harness: Friday 10/9 Analysis
By Garnet Barnsdale

DRF HARNESS

Race 4 - $50,000 Guaranteed Pick Four Pool

20-CENT PICK 5: 1,3,4,7/1,4,6/2,3,6/1,2,5/1,5 = $43.20

EARLY PICK 4: 1,2,5/1,5/1,4,10/2,6,9 = $54

LATE PICK 4: 1,4,6/2,3,8/1/1,2,4,8,10 = $45

MEET STATS: 10 - 42 / 59.10 BEST BETS: 1 - 4 / $4.60

SPOT PLAYS: 2 - 4 / 25.10

Best Bet: REGAL LUCK (10th)

Spot Play: LETS WAIT AND SEE (4th)


Race 1

(1) DUBLIN ROSE enters this fresh off a new life's mark in her Grassroots Final win and should work out a good trip here; top call. (3) SHUTTHEFRONTDOOR was given an aggressive steer from the 10-hole last week and just failed to last. She could do here with a better trip. (4) ARTIAWITCHTOYOU is too sharp to ignore, but she could set the table for the choice.

Race 2

(6) WILD AND CRAZY GUY had plenty of trot to offer last week but couldn't use it until very late because he was trapped by a gapping pocket-sitter and a non-advancing first-over rival. He should be a square price here; Spot Play. (1) WINDSUN REVENGE left then took a shuffle in his return race. Expect improvement here. (4) RIVETING ROSIE has faced better and will likely try to take these coast-to-coast. Any breathers make her extra dangerous.

Race 3

(6) ARTISTIC MADISON is a win machine, loves Woodbine and rarely gets bet. Add all of that up and we'll make her our top call here. (3) HOPE FOR PADDY roared up late last week in a return to her best form and is the one to beat. (2) MARLEE B has hit the board in 14 of 22 tries this year, drops out of the Ellamony and is another in with a good shot in this competitive dash.

Race 4

(2) LETS WAIT AND SEE returns from a break showing quick first and last quarters in his qualifier. Don't underestimate anything trainer Brealey sends out at this meet. (1) NEWBIE has fired identical 26 4/5 kickers in his last two starts but was too far back to make a big impact. Expect a more aggressive steer here. (5) SHOE SHINE was flying late last week and is another to use on pick 4 and pick 5 tickets.

Race 5

(5) ADVERSITY was coming on late last week after having followed poor cover. He is coming back around now and likely sitting on a win. (1) FLYHAWK EL DURADO was only a length behind the choice and the move inside should help him start more alertly. (3) MUSICAL SPELL likes Woodbine and showed improvement back on this oval last week.

Race 6

(4) MACARENA MAMA raced better last week against a very sharp winner and may be ready to win her first of the season here. (10) MISS ALI MACH N returns from a break, faces easier, had a sharp qualifier and goes for a trainer noted for having them ready off layoffs; using. (1) DIANNA SANTANNA tried it first up last week which isn't her trip. She can be closer here off cover.

Race 7

(6) CATCH THE DREAM raced great last week considering the glacial middle 1/2 worked totally against him. Give him a slight edge over (2) DAMFOOLRMILLIONAIR who sat the pocket in the same race and finished just ahead of him. (9) INTIMIDATE gets Lasix and faces easier. He's hard to leave out despite the post and time missed.

Race 8

(6) AINSLEYNOELLE raced tough in the Grassroots Semi-Final and Final and should be tough in here with the late speed she has been producing. (4) HAZMATT has won powerfully twice straight and has a quick lethal brush that makes her a tough foe. (1) HOLLYROCKER could trip out from the better post; don't underestimate.

Race 9

(8) POWER MOVE raced better last time and was a frequent Woodbine winner at the last meet; top call. (3) CAL CHIPS BROTHER has been racing well and will get there one of these times. (2) ANDOVERS TOUCH will be competitive if he can stay flat - which is an iffy proposition.

Race 10

(1) REGAL LUCK faces her easiest field in weeks. Last time she faced similar, she won by more than 6 lengths. Beat her to greet the cashier. (7) NAT A VIRGIN was an impressive winner last week but is also erratic and unpredictable. (2) TRUE REFLECTION has raced well here in the past and has been showing signs of improving form recently.

Race 11

(1) LEAFS AND WINGS was only beaten a neck when last in this class. He should get a good trip here; on top. (10) HIT AND GIGGLE A qualified sharply free-legged and is a threat to take these all the way. (4) CAMAES FELLOW has missed almost a month but can share here. (8) DERBY DYLAN was claimed by a high % barn and isn't without a shot here. (2) REASONABLE FORCE usually grabs a check at this level and is capable of bettering this prediction.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Yonkers: Friday 10/9 Analysis
By Brewster Smith

DRF HARNESS

MEET STATS: 305 - 927 / $1688.30 BEST BETS: 44 - 74 / $151.00

Best Bet: CINAMONY (8th)

Spot Play: FEELS LIKE MAGIC N (3rd)



Race 1

(1) MAYFLOWERMOONSHINE got the job done at Saratoga last week, now moves downstate and draws the rail slot; ready to boss these with Brennan at the helm. (4) VODKA IS TERROR has put in two seconds in a row; main danger. (3) TOUCH AND GO rallied strongly to nail down the show spot last out; beware.

Race 2

(1) MONROE COUNTY Very consistent mare has been on the board in his last 7 starts; now trotter moves to the fence and has every right to return to the winner's circle. (6) FOR YOU ALMOSTFREE Tough break in his latest; stays in same condition and could atone. (2) CASHONTHEROCS is on the dropdown and that might help his cause; maybe.

Race 3

(6) FEELS LIKE MAGIC N was sharp to grab the place spot last time out; he seems to be heading in the right direction and could be ready to put his best foot forward. (1) MORTAL ZIN has hit the board in his last three starts; threat. (4) GOBAN is better than his last flop; don't overlook.

Race 4

(1) URBANA BAYAMA flashed good speed in his last trip to the post; with a relaxing trip he could top these at his best. (2) DUEL IN THE SUN just held on for win honors in his latest; appears to be the main danger. (5) DREAMLANDS ART Very sharp last out to miss the score by a neck; not out of this.

Race 5

(5) INVICTUS HANOVER Gelding has scored in his last three starts; moves up the ladder but his solid form makes this guy a major player again. (3) SIX GUN gets serious post relief and that should put this gelding in the mix; possible. (8) COACH CAL has hit the board in his last 6 starts; very capable despite the bad draw.

Race 6

(7) DELIGHTFUL DRAGON closed strongly to grab the show spot but was moved up to second in his last trip to the post; this should be a perfect spot for this mare to get the job done over these. (2) LUCULIA A was nailed for win honors last time out; big threat. (3) COCOA BEACH did put in a good effort last out but was DQ'd from the placing; could have a say in the outcome.

Race 7

(1) LAUXMONT CAPRI gets post relief and Brennan takes over this pacing gelding; can boss these if he reverts back to his September 21st start. (3) SMOOTH CRIMINAL should be a major player with the move to the 3-hole; watch out. (8) LORD OF MISRULE moves down in class; post hurts but is very capable; beware.

Race 8

(8) CINAMONY Tough loss at odds on last time out; expect Brennan to send this pacing miss on the engine; ready to atone. (7) ANNDROVETTE is back with her friends and could contend with this group. (5) CAROLSIDEAL might fare well from the 5-hole; maybe.

Race 9

(1) ARI ALLSTAR is back to the fence where this gelding closed well to nail down the victory on September 4th with Bartlett at the bike; now he returns on this 4-year-old and at his best, he can boss these. (2) SANTANNA ONE has wheeled off two straight victories and figures to be a exotics factor again. (3) IDEAL RACE gets Brennan and has tactical speed; don't overlook.

Race 10

(3) STORMUNN Her last two starts maybe an indication she is ready to get back into the winner's circle; we shall see. (1) SIR JILLIAN Z TAM gets post relief and that should help her cause; dangerous. (5) RD IOU did show good speed in her last start; could make some noise in deep stretch.

Race 11

(3) SAMS ESCAPE Gelding fits in here off his second straight score; the one to deny. (5) JUSTIFIED late surge to grab the show spot last out; serious player. (6) JDS CALEB MAN Three sharp tries makes this gelding a exotics factor again.

Race 12

(3) SOLID QUEEN Very sharp pacing miss just missed her second victory in a row last out; can take these to task for all the cash. (2) LITTLE MISS HENRY She must be considered based on her last two; threat with Brennan. (4) ROCKAROUND SUE was sent by Bartlett down the road last out for all the glory; can't be counted out despite the rise in class.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

SPOT PLAYS

For Friday


TRACK (RACE) HORSE, MORNING LINE


Belmont Park (1st) Denim Blue, 8-1
(5th) Mach Seven, 5-1

Belterra Park (1st) Vantastic Magic, 4-1
(5th) Turn n' Fire, 7-2

Charles Town (2nd) Star Sense, 6-1
(4th) No Way R J, 9-2


Finger Lakes (2nd) Stopthefever, 7-2
(6th) Eye to Eye, 7-2


Fresno (6th) Find Water, 3-1
(10th) I Rock the Party, 5-1


Gulfstream Park West (2nd) More Applause, 4-1
(4th) Running on Guinnes, 3-1


Hawthorne (2nd) Lifelong Dream, 3-1
(7th) Cartiac Arrest, 8-1


Indiana Grand (2nd) Chapparra, 9-2
(7th) Runaway Raj, 6-1


Keeneland (4th) Unbridledexplosion, 7-2
(5th) La Majestique, 3-1


Laurel Park (4th) Kaiser's d'Light, 8-1
(6th) Boss's Rules, 7-2


Meadowlands (4th) Parody, 6-1
(6th) Channel Surfing, 6-1


Penn National (5th) Notalotatrouble, 5-1
(6th) Pavlick, 8-1


Remington Park (6th) Domain's Rap, 5-1
(9th) Ivy Jo, 4-1


Retama Park (6th) Seneca Cat, 4-1
(8th) One True Sun, 5-1


Santa Anita (6th) Love de Car, 6-1
(7th) Bottle Blonde, 4-1


Thistledown (4th) Tacky Angel, 5-1
(5th) My Devilish Diva, 5-1


Woodbine (2nd) Osculator, 7-2
7th) Supersizer, 3-1

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Rangers (88-74) at Blue Jays (93-69)

Game: 2
Venue: Rogers Centre
Date: October 09, 2015 12:45 PM EDT

Cole Hamels tasted playoff success early in his career, leading Philadelphia to a World Series title in his third season.

Seven years later, he's hoping to do the same for his new club.

The left-hander takes the mound Friday for the Texas Rangers as they look to bury the Toronto Blue Jays in a 2-0 deficit in the AL Division Series, though both teams may have to cope with injuries to star players.

The Rangers dropped Hamels' first two starts after acquiring him at the trade deadline, but have won all 10 since. He owns a 3.21 ERA in that span and capped the regular season with his first complete game for Texas, tossing a three-hitter in Sunday's 9-2 victory against the Los Angeles Angels as the Rangers clinched the AL West.

Hamels (7-1, 3.66 ERA) knows all about postseason glory. He was named the 2008 World Series MVP after going 4-0 with a 1.80 in five postseason starts as a 24-year-old.

He's 7-4 with a 3.09 ERA in 13 career playoff outings, including 5-1 and 2.01 on the road, though this marks his first taste of postseason action since he threw six scoreless innings in a Division Series win at St. Louis in 2011.

"These are the best moments," he told MLB's official website. "And you truly don't have anything to lose but enjoying it, because it's a special time. Not a lot of us get to experience this."

Hamels is still seeking his first win against Toronto, however, having gone 0-2 with a 6.97 ERA in four meetings.

Thursday's 5-3 victory has the Rangers looking to take a 2-0 lead, which would put the odds squarely in their favor. Since 2004, 27 teams have fallen into a 2-0 deficit in the division series, and only San Francisco in 2012 came back to win the series, defeating Cincinnati en route to winning the World Series.

Thursday's loss spoiled Toronto's first playoff game in 22 years.

"I'm over it," catcher Russell Martin said. "I'm ready to go tomorrow. I'm not a big believer in carrying over to the next day. It's a completely brand new ballgame. I like our offense, I like our defense, I like our pitching, I like our chances."

Both teams could be without one of their biggest offensive assets in Josh Donaldson and Adrian Beltre. Donaldson left in the fifth inning after taking a knee to the head during a slide into second base in the fourth, and manager John Gibbons said he reported feeling light-headed in the field, though he passed concussion tests.

Donaldson's 123 RBIs were the second-most in baseball.

"Hopefully he can bounce back and be back in the lineup tomorrow," Martin said. "He's an MVP. Obviously you want that guy playing."

Beltre left in the third with a sore lower back, also suffering his injury when sliding into second in the first inning. Manager Jeff Bannister said he wasn't sure if Beltre would play, though general manager Jon Daniels didn't rule him out.

An MRI showed a strained back but no structural damage, though Joey Gallo and Ed Lucas will join the team from Texas' Arizona Fall League squad in case Beltre needs to be removed from the roster.

"Obviously we want Adrian in there," Banister said of his third baseman, who posted a 1.204 OPS and 33 RBIs over his final 22 regular-season games. "He's the heart and soul of this ballclub."

Toronto outhit Texas 6-5, but the Blue Jays were 2 for 9 with runners in scoring position. All five of the Rangers' runs came against starter David Price, including three on homers by Robinson Chirinos and Rougned Odor.

Jose Bautista also gave the Blue Jays a scare, but is expected to play after leaving with a sore right hamstring after popping out in the eighth. He hit a solo homer in the sixth to get Toronto within a run.

Marcus Stroman (4-0, 1.67) has been outstanding in four starts since returning from a torn ACL suffered in spring training, particularly in the last three where he's limited opponents to 16 hits and two runs over 22 innings. The right-hander's performance has even caught the attention of Hamels.

"I think you have to give Stroman some serious credit for what he's done this year," Hamels said. " ... From what he's been able to do, it's absolutely tremendous."

Stroman won his only previous start against Texas, throwing seven scoreless innings in a 4-1 home victory July 19, 2014.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Astros (86-76) at Royals (95-67)

Game: 2
Venue: Ewing M. Kauffman Stadium
Date: October 09, 2015 3:45 PM EDT

The Houston Astros swung a deal for Scott Kazmir in July with October baseball in mind.

The Kansas City Royals did the same for Johnny Cueto.

It's only fitting the two pitchers, acquired by their teams three days apart, will oppose each other in Game 2 of their AL division series on Friday at Kauffman Stadium.

Kazmir will take the mound after Collin McHugh pitched six strong innings in Thursday's 5-2 victory to open the series two days after ace Dallas Keuchel lasted six in a 3-0 victory over the New York Yankees in the wild-card game.

'It's a big responsibility for someone like me that gets traded to a contending team, to be able to bring these guys to the postseason,' Kazmir said. 'It's just a matter of staying confident and pitching my game. There's a lot of things you can't control on the mound to where you have to stay confident in your abilities and know what you're capable of doing.'

The Astros traded right-hander Daniel Mengden and catcher Jacob Nottingham to Oakland for Kazmir, a Houston native whom they had pursued in free agency.

But the 31-year-old Kazmir wasn't nearly as effective for the Astros as he was for the A's, going 2-6 with a 4.17 ERA in 13 starts. That led some to wonder whether manager A.J. Hinch would be confident enough in Kazmir to send him to the mound for Game 2.

'He's had three games against the Royals this year. He's done very well in all three of those games,' Hinch said, alluding to Kazmir's 1-1 record and 2.11 ERA against Kansas City.

'It factors in a little bit in the decision-making,' Hinch said. 'He's comfortable in this ballpark. Maybe he likes the mound.'

Mike Moustakas and Lorenzo Cain combined to go 1 for 17 against Kazmir in 2015.

The fact that Kazmir will be facing Cueto is surprising on two fronts.

Royals general manager Dayton Moore usually is reluctant to make deals for rental players headed toward free agency. The small-market club is built through the amateur draft and developing its players, so by shipping a trio of left-handed pitchers to Cincinnati for Cueto, Moore was making a rare gamble with the future to win in the present.

In addition, Cueto posted a 9.57 ERA in losing five straight starts between Aug. 21-Sept. 13. He is 2-1 with a 3.24 ERA in four outings since.

'Johnny's last four or five starts have been really, really good,' manager Ned Yost said, 'and we look forward to having him have another really good one tomorrow night.'

The Houston hitter Cueto has faced the most is Colby Rasmus, who is 9 for 27 with a homer in this matchup. Rasmus has delivered solo homers in each game in the postseason and has six home runs and 11 RBIs in his last nine contests. He has tied a major league record by getting an extra-base hit in his first five playoff games.

George Springer also homered Thursday and Jose Altuve added three hits for Houston, which has received six scoreless innings of two-hit ball from its bullpen in the playoffs.

Springer is 8 for 15 with three homers, six RBIs and nine runs scored in four career games at Kansas City.

"Sometimes guys see the ball better in one park over another," Hinch said. "They don't pitch Springer any differently than a lot of teams do."

The only offense by Kansas City was provided by Kendrys Morales' two homers. He's the third player in Royals history with a multihomer effort in the postseason, joining George Brett and Willie Aikens.

The Royals had only four singles outside of Morales, who is 2 for 9 this year off Kazmir.

'It's a five-game series,' Yost said. 'It's not a death sentence to lose Game 1.'

Kansas City, though, realizes how critical Friday is since Keuchel is set to pitch Game 3 on Sunday at home, where he is 15-0 with a 1.46 ERA.

"You look at Keuchel's numbers at home, they're really impressive," Yost said. "Tomorrow will be a big game for us, yeah."

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Cubs (97-65) at Cardinals (100-62)

Game: 1
Venue: Busch Stadium
Date: October 09, 2015 6:45 PM EDT

ST. LOUIS (AP) John Lackey has been quite the bargain for the St. Louis Cardinals.

Pitching for the major league minimum $507,500 salary due to a clause in contract, Lackey went 13-10 for a team that lost its ace early. And when old rivals face each other in a postseason series for the first time Friday, he'll be pitching against an old buddy.

The 36-year-old Lackey will oppose the Chicago Cubs' Jon Lester, a duo that formed a devastating one-two for the Red Sox in the 2013 World Series.

'I'd like to say I was surprised, but I'm not,' Lackey said Thursday. 'He's good. No accident people running into each other this time of year.'

Lackey had a career-best 2.77 ERA and consistently went deep for the 100-win Cardinals, stepping up as the de facto ace after Adam Wainwright tore his left Achilles in late April.

He has earned this slot, the crusty, bulldog demeanor reminding management of former star pitcher Chris Carpenter.

Lackey was paid $82.5 million the previous five years under a contract he signed with Boston, which included a conditional club option for 2015 at the minimum. That condition was met when he missed 2012 while recovering from reconstructive elbow surgery.

St. Louis acquired him from the Red Sox on July 31, 2014. Lackey can become a free agent again this fall.

'I don't think we'll discuss what we're doing in the offseason or strategy in the offseason at this point,' Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said. 'We're excited he's a part of it and we're looking forward to a successful October.'

Lester and Lackey combined for three victories in a six-game 2013 Series triumph over the Cardinals. Lester was 2-0 with a 0.59 ERA and Lackey won the clincher.

'He was probably the best on the planet going through the playoffs that year,' Lackey said. 'He knows how to compete and he knows how to handle this time of year, for sure.'

Lester will try to follow an excellent wild-card performance by Jake Arrieta, who threw a four-hitter Wednesday night in a 4-0 victory over the Pirates.

Lester figured he'd be matched against 17-game winner Michael Wacha, but the right-hander was 2-3 with a 7.78 ERA the final month and will start Game 3. When Lester learned he would be opposed by Lackey, he thought it funny - and fitting.

'He's going to almost out-will you sometimes, if that makes sense,' Lester said. 'Our friendship will go beyond this game, will go beyond this career, but come tomorrow, we're not buddies anymore.'

Kyle Hendricks (8-7, 3.95) will oppose Jaime Garcia (10-6, 2.43) in Game 2 Saturday. Arrieta (22-6, 1.77), having a breakout Cy Young-caliber season, faces Wacha (17-7, 3.38) in Game 3 and in Game 4 it will be St. Louis' Lance Lynn (12-11, 3.03) against probably Jason Hammel (10-7, 3.74).

Thousands of fans regularly make the trek north or south and do their utmost to make the visitors feel right at home.

'I didn't even realize this was the first time we had met in the postseason,' said Cubs manager Joe Maddon, who spoke reverently about the Cardinals tradition during earlier trips to Busch Stadium. 'I thought that was kind of interesting, but then again it's believable if you look at how this thing plays out.'

'It's going to be bumping tomorrow, regardless of who's winning,' Cardinals second baseman Kolten Wong said. 'And when we go to Wrigley, we know that stadium is going to be bumping for sure.'

The pre-game workout was newsworthy for the Cardinals, who saw enough from All-Star catcher Yadier Molina that they believe he can be effective behind the plate wearing a hard plastic molded splint to protect a strained left thumb ligament. The thumb will be wrapped for at-bats.

Molina was injured tagging out the Cubs' Anthony Rizzo sliding into the plate on Sept. 20 in Chicago.

Maddon said he'd wait until game day to announce any roster changes but promised no major wrinkles.

'It's not going to be dramatically different, promise you,' Maddon said.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

Preview: Mets (90-72) at Dodgers (92-70)

Game: 1
Venue: Dodger Stadium
Date: October 09, 2015 9:45 PM EDT

LOS ANGELES (AP) Clayton Kershaw isn't sure what to expect from the new-look Mets, whose dramatic transformation in the second half of the season led to an NL East title.

The Los Angeles Dodgers ace faced a mostly different New York lineup before the July trade deadline. Even veteran Mets infielder David Wright was out at the time.

'There's a lot of guys that I'll be seeing for the first time this season,' Kershaw said Thursday. 'Definitely a completely different team. Obviously, a lot better than what we faced in July.'

The Dodgers aren't the same team that got chased out of the Division Series by St. Louis a year ago. They shipped out Matt Kemp, Hanley Ramirez and Juan Uribe (now a Met), and ushered in veterans Jimmy Rollins, Howie Kendrick and Yasmani Grandal.

When Kershaw takes the mound for Friday night's opener at Dodger Stadium, he'll be trying to earn just the second postseason win of his career after going 0-4 in his last two series against the Cardinals.

'I definitely remember,' he said, 'but it's a new team, new season and, hopefully, for me a new outcome.'

The Mets won four of seven meetings between the teams, all in that month before Yoenis Cespedes arrived from Detroit in a trade that boosted the Mets' anemic offense. They are in the playoffs for the first time in nine years; the Dodgers are making their third straight appearance for the first time in franchise history.

Kelly Johnson and Uribe joined the Mets shortly before Cespedes, acquisitions manager Terry Collins credited for turning around the team along with the his message to the players: If you hit, you'll play.

'Lucas Duda took off, (Wilmer) Flores took off, Kelly Johnson and Juan kept playing, as well,' Collins said. "All of a sudden guys are looking at their jobs saying, `Oh my gosh, I've got to step up here, and they did.''

Kershaw will be opposed by Jacob deGrom, last year's NL Rookie of the Year and a converted infielder who is making his playoffs debut. The right-hander isn't about to compare himself to Kershaw, last year's NL MVP and a three-time Cy Young Award winner, except in one area.

'The way he takes the mound, he goes out there and attacks hitters,' deGrom said. 'I try to do the same thing, not get intimidated by anybody who steps in the box and go out there and make your pitches when you need to.'

Kershaw chatted with deGrom at the All-Star Game in July, already aware of deGrom's explosive fastball.

"Just the carry and the ride that it has on it, the ball that looks like it's at your shins or ankles seems like he gets a lot of called strikes there,' Kershaw said. 'His off-speed pitches have gotten better from last year. We definitely have a challenge. This whole series, the three, four guys they're throwing at us are pretty solid.'

The teams split the four regular-season games started by Kershaw and Zack Greinke, who will take the mound for the Dodgers in Game 2 on Saturday.

DeGrom's path to the majors took several twists and turns, starting with him becoming a pitcher in his junior year at Stetson University. He was drafted on the ninth round by the Mets in 2010 and missed his first minor-league season the next year after undergoing Tommy John surgery. DeGrom didn't make it to the big leagues until last year.

'All of us are thankful every day we get to put this uniform on and we play this game,' he said, 'so try not to take any days for granted.'

Already the oldest manager in the majors at 66, Collins is making his managerial playoff debut with the Mets after previous managing stints in Houston and with the Anaheim Angels. He was director of player development for the Dodgers in 2006 when they drafted Kershaw, who began in the Gulf Coast League.

Current Dodgers pitching coach Rick Honeycutt was Collins' minor league pitching coordinator then and approached him after watching Kershaw throw.

'He went, `Oh wow,'' Collins said.

'When he takes the ball he wants to finish what he starts,' Collins said of Kershaw. 'I'm not surprised he's as good as he is.'

Collins plans to start three left-handed hitters against Kershaw: Curtis Granderson, Daniel Murphy and Lucas Duda, who reminded his manager of his ability to hit against lefties.

'I told him the other day, `Remember when you told me you hit lefties?'' Collins said. 'Well, you're going to face a pretty good one Friday, so you better.'

NOTES: Mets LHP Steven Matz, who has been bothered by back stiffness, threw approximately 90 pitches in a simulated game in Port St. Lucie, Florida. If he is put on the Division Series roster Friday, he likely would start Game 4.

 

[Can'tPickaWinner2]

MLB

American League

Rangers vs Blue Jays
Texas won last ten Hamels starts (4-0, 3.21 last four); over is 5-0-1 in his last six.

Stroman is 4-0, 1.67 in four starts this season (over 2-2).

Rangers lost six of last nine games with Toronto (under 6-4-1 last 11); Texas is in the playoffs for first time since losing first AL Wild Card game in 2012- they've won five of last seven games overall (over 5-4-1 in last ten).

Blue Jays are in playoffs for first time since winning '93 World Series; they lost five of last six games-- over is 5-0-2 in their last seven games.

Astros vs Royals
Kazmir is 0-3, 7.00 in his last seven starts (over 2-0-1 last three).

Cueto is 2-1, 3.24 in his last four starts (over 8-2 in last ten).

Houston won eight of its last ten games to get here; this is Astros' first postseason since 2005. Astros are 8-2 in last ten games with Royals (under is 5-1 in last six in series).

Kansas City lost Game 7 of World Series LY, its first playoff appearance since 1985; Royals won five of last six games overall (under 7-2 in last nine).


National League

Cubs vs Cardinals
Lester is 2-2, 2.19 in his last five starts (under 3-1-1).

Lackey is 2-1, 1.80 in his last four starts (over 6-4 last ten).

Cubs won last nine games, allowing nine runs (under 8-2-1 last 11) they're 6-3 in last nine games with St Louis (over 7-1-1). Chicago is in playoffs for first time since '08. Joe Maddon was in playoffs with Rays four times in six years from '08-'13.

St Louis is in playoffs for fifth year in row, 12th time in 16 years; they lost six of last nine games and got shut out in last three, at Atlanta (under 3-0 last three).

Mets vs Dodgers
de Grom is 2-1, 3.68 in his last four starts (over 6-2 last eight).

Kershaw is 2-0, 1.53 in his last three starts (over 2-0-1).

Mets are 5-3 in last eight games with LA (over 7-3 last ten). NY lost five of last six games, scoring two runs in last four games. Mets are in playoffs for first time since 2006, second time since '00.

Dodgers are in playoffs for third year in row; they've won four games in row overall.

AL Wild Card game
Houston @ Bronx
Hst 3-0, even U7

NL Wild Card game
Chicago @ Pittsburgh
Chi 4-0, -$125, U5.5

NLDS
New York @ Los Angeles

NLDS
Chicago @ St Louis

ALDS
Texas @ Toronto
Tex 5-3, +$250, N8

ALDS
Houston @ Kansas City
Hst 5-2, +$122, U7.5