Friday, December 6, 2024

Aqueduct

Battaglia’s Picks recommends playing Exacta Boxes:

• Surefire Selections (⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐): Prime picks with the highest confidence level. Place your bets with utmost assurance.

• Stellar Selections (⭐⭐⭐⭐): Strong contenders with solid prospects. A very favorable betting choice.

• Notable Nominations (⭐⭐⭐): Worthy of attention, these picks hold intriguing potential.

• Moderate Mentions (⭐⭐): Proceed with caution. These horses present some possibilities, but also notable risks.

• Consider Skipping (⭐): Best to observe. The risks likely outweigh the potential rewards in these races.

Race 1

Post: 12:10 PM ET Dirt

6 Furlongs | State Bred | Fillies | 2 Year Olds | MAIDEN CLAIMING : $25,000 | Purse: $35,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 1 & 2, Pick 3 ($1) (1-3) Early Pick 5 (.50) (1-5)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 8-1 Bourbon Blanket M. Olver 119 Lbs J. Begg $25,000

• 2 2 ML 3-1 Infastuation C. Elliott 114 Lbs J. Ryerson $25,000

• 3 3 ML 6-1 Lookin to Rock J. Panaijo 119 Lbs A. Chichakly $25,000

• 4 4 ML 10-1 Classicals Finale O. Hernandez Moreno 119 Lbs A. Chichakly $25,000

• 5 5 ML 5-1 Instant Vision F. Martinez 114 Lbs R. Persaud $25,000

• 6 6 ML 5-2 Heavens Lee A. Otero 112 Lbs B. Levine $25,000

• 7 7 ML 7-2 Just Words J. Lezcano 119 Lbs J. Ryerson $25,000

Selections 2-7-6-3 Rating ⭐⭐

#2 Infastuation (3-1)

• Jockey: C. Elliott (11% in 2024)

• Trainer: James T. Ryerson (14% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 25%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 76, Late 51

• Last Beyer: 30

• Field Beyer Average: 27

• Running Style: Presser/Stalker

Comment: Demonstrating tactical speed, Infastuation has shown the ability to press or stalk the pace, which suits this field's likely setup. Last out, she finished a solid third in the slop, handling challenging conditions well. Her Beyer figure is competitive for this group, and the Elliott-Ryerson combo boasts a strong win percentage at this meet. A switch to faster track conditions could improve her finishing kick.

#7 Just Words (7-2)

• Jockey: J. Lezcano (16% in 2024)

• Trainer: James T. Ryerson (14% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 15%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 78, Late 46

• Last Beyer: 27

• Field Beyer Average: 27

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: With a sharp early pace figure of 78, Just Words is likely to be forwardly placed. She encountered trouble at the gate last out, finishing a close fifth after losing momentum early. Her previous performances indicate she’s capable of holding her own against similar company. If she breaks cleanly, her speed and the favorable rail position should allow her to secure a stalking trip. The Lezcano-Ryerson partnership adds further appeal.

#6 Heavens Lee (5-2)

• Jockey: A. Otero (6% in 2024)

• Trainer: Bruce N. Levine (14% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 0%

• TimeformUS Pace: N/A (Debut Runner)

• Last Beyer: N/A

• Field Beyer Average: 27

• Running Style: Unknown (First-Time Starter)

Comment:

Heavens Lee is a first-time starter with intriguing credentials. By Lookin At Lee (a strong dirt sire from the Lookin At Lucky line), she hails from a family that has demonstrated durability and an affinity for distance. Her dam, Heavens Whisper, has produced runners that excel in sprints, making this six-furlong debut an ideal starting point.

#3 Lookin to Rock (6-1)

• Jockey: J. Panai (1% in 2024)

• Trainer: Amira Chichakly (6% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 17%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 55, Late 70

• Last Beyer: 29

• Field Beyer Average: 27

• Running Style: Closer

Comment: Despite her modest record, Lookin to Rock’s consistent late pace figures signal she can pick up pieces in a race with projected early pace pressure. Though her trainer's stats are uninspiring, she’s shown improvement with each start and recently overcame trouble in a turf effort. Transitioning back to dirt, she could benefit from a pace meltdown, offering value as a potential longshot in exotic wagers.

Winner #2 Infastuation $9.50
Second #3 Lookin to Rock $1 exacta $26.00

Race 2

Post: 12:40 PM ET Dirt

6 1/2 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | STARTER ALLOWANCE | Purse: $65,000 Exacta ($1), Quinella ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 2 & 3 Pick 3 ($1) (2-4), Pick 4 (.50) (2-5)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 9-5 Forward Move D. Davis 122 Lbs L. Rice L

• 2 2 ML 15-1 Screaming Uncle L. Luzzi 122 Lbs C. Bhigroog L

• 3 3 ML 10-1 Hatch E. Ruiz 122 Lbs E. Jones L

• 4 4 ML 5-2 Beaver State M. Franco 120 Lbs W. Bailes L

• 5 5 ML 2-1 Play J. Lezcano 122 Lbs L. Rice L

• 6 6 ML 6-1 J J's Joker C. Elliott 117 Lbs W. Potts L

Selections 1-5-4-3 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

#1 Forward Move (9-5)

• Jockey: D. Davis (24% in 2024)

• Trainer: Linda Rice (19% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 27%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 92, Late 73

• Last Beyer: 84

• Field Beyer Average: 78

• Running Style: Presser/Stalker

Comment: Forward Move boasts a competitive Beyer and solid tactical speed, positioning him perfectly in this field. His recent efforts, including two narrow seconds at this level, suggest he’s knocking on the door. The Rice-Davis combo is highly effective, and Forward Move has proven affinity for the Aqueduct track with a 1-2-0 record from three starts here. With a projected pace that could favor a pressing trip, he’s a logical favorite with strong win credentials.

#5 Play (2-1)

• Jockey: J. Lezcano (16% in 2024)

• Trainer: Linda Rice (19% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 22%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 117, Late 49

• Last Beyer: 78

• Field Beyer Average: 78

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: Play’s sharp early speed makes him a significant pace factor. He wired the field two starts back and just missed last time after leading into the stretch. With Lezcano aboard, this gelding should be prominent early and could take the field all the way with minimal pace pressure. However, his stamina over this slightly extended trip (6 1/2 furlongs) is a concern, particularly with a pressing rival like Forward Move breathing down his neck.

#4 Beaver State (5-2)

• Jockey: D. Davis (24% in 2024)

• Trainer: W. Robert Bailes (15% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 24%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 78, Late 75

• Last Beyer: 82

• Field Beyer Average: 78

• Running Style: Stalker/Closer

Comment: Beaver State is an intriguing option with strong finishing figures and a competitive Beyer last time out. He’s stepping up slightly in class but fits well in this field based on his sharp runner-up effort over 7 furlongs at Aqueduct. The slight cutback in distance should enhance his closing punch, and Davis’s aggressive style complements this gelding’s late-running ability. Expect him to make a big move turning for home, especially if the leaders duel.

#3 Hatch (10-1)

• Jockey: E. Ruiz (5% in 2024)

• Trainer: Eduardo E. Jones (0% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 0%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 106, Late 52

• Last Beyer: 71

• Field Beyer Average: 78

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: Hatch has been in sharp form recently, winning two of his last three starts, including a gutsy effort at this distance. His early speed could pose a problem for Play, as both runners are likely to vie for the lead. However, Hatch lacks the class and consistency of the top choices. He remains a viable longshot in exotics, especially if the pace scenario unfolds favorably.

Winner #4 Beaver State $11.00
Second #3 Hatch $1 Exacta $49.50

Race 3

Post: 1:10 PM ET Dirt

1 Mile | Open | 2 Year Olds | ALLOWANCE OPTIONAL CLAIMING : $80,000 | Purse: $92,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 3 & 4, Pick 3 ($1) (3-5) Pick 6 ($1) (3-8)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 5 ML 4-5 Uncle Jim F. Geroux 120 Lbs B. Cox

• 1A 7 ML 4-5 One Man Team M. Franco 120 Lbs B. Russell

• 2 1 ML 2-1 Cyclone State L. Rivera, Jr. 122 Lbs C. Summers

• 3 2 ML 30-1 Kakao R. Silvera 122 Lbs A. Sanchez-Pinero

• 4 3 ML 10-1 Ican J. Rosario 120 Lbs R. Dutrow, Jr.

• 5 4 ML 15-1 Corvus D. Davis 122 Lbs J. Jimenez

• 6 6 ML 4-1 My Mitole J. Lezcano 122 Lbs C. Martin

Selections 2-5 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#2 Cyclone State (2-1)

• Jockey: L. R. Rivera Jr. (11% in 2024)

• Trainer: Chad Summers (14% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 50%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 109, Late 66

• Last Beyer: 82

• Field Beyer Average: 59

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: Cyclone State broke his maiden in dominant gate-to-wire fashion at a mile on dirt. His early speed figures are the best in this field, giving him a potential edge if he can control the pace. However, his stamina may come into question if pressured early. With Summers showing a modest record with allowance horses, Cyclone State could be vulnerable late, but his pace advantage ensures he’s in contention.

#5 Corvus (15-1)

• Jockey: D. Davis (24% in 2024)

• Trainer: Jose M. Jimenez (0% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 11%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 77, Late 61

• Last Beyer: 59

• Field Beyer Average: 59

• Running Style: Closer

Comment: Corvus stepped up to win a maiden special weight last out at this distance, showing a decent closing kick. While his Beyer is below the field average, his late-running style could benefit from a fast early pace. Davis is riding at the top of his game, and Corvus offers value as a longshot, especially in exotics.

#1a One Man Team (4-5)

• Jockey: M. Franco (18% in 2024)

• Trainer: B. Russell (24% in 2024)

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 118, Late 39

• Last Beyer: 68

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: Part of coupled entry with Uncle Jim. Impressive front-running maiden win at Laurel with improving figures. Could be dangerous if able to control pace.

Winner #2 Cyclone State $2.60

Race 4

Post: 1:40 PM ET Dirt

6 1/2 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | ALLOWANCE OPTIONAL CLAIMING : $62,500 | Purse: $95,000 Exacta ($1), Quinella ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 4 & 5 Pick 3 ($1) (4-6), Grand Slam ($1) (4-7), Late Pick 5 (.50) (4-8)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 4 ML 4-1 Wake Surf E. Cancel 121 Lbs I. Kantarmaci $62,500 L

• 1A 5 ML 4-1 Gun It M. Franco 123 Lbs I. Kantarmaci $62,500 L

• 2 1 ML 20-1 Squire Creek R. Maragh 121 Lbs A. Arriaga $62,500 L

• 3 2 ML 8-1 Bramito K. Carmouche 123 Lbs L. Rice L

• 4 3 ML 5-2 Victory Way J. Lezcano 121 Lbs W. Mott L

• 5 6 ML 6-5 El Grande O D. Davis 120 Lbs L. Rice L

• 6 7 ML 9-2 Reddington R. Silvera 123 Lbs E. Barker L

Selections 5-6-3-4 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#5 El Grande O (6-5)

• Jockey: D. Davis (24% in 2024)

• Trainer: Linda Rice (19% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 21%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 100, Late 87

• Last Beyer: 94

• Field Beyer Average: 91

• Running Style: Speed/Presser

Comment: El Grande O comes off a dominant win at this level, demonstrating both class and sharp form. His early speed allows him to dictate terms, and his consistency at Aqueduct (7 starts, 3 wins, 2 seconds) makes him a standout. Davis has been hot, and the Rice barn excels in these sprint conditions. With a 94 Beyer last time out and no significant pace rivals, he’s poised to control this race from start to finish.

#6 Reddington (9-2)

• Jockey: R. Silvera (12% in 2024)

• Trainer: Edward R. Barker (14% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 17%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 100, Late 75

• Last Beyer: 93

• Field Beyer Average: 91

• Running Style: Stalker/Closer

Comment: Reddington has shown versatility and improved sharply since dropping into allowance company. His win at 7 furlongs in September at this track was eye-catching, showcasing a strong finishing kick. Silvera must time his ride perfectly, but Reddington is capable of springing a mild upset.

#3 Bramito (8-1)

• Jockey: K. Carmouche (11% in 2024)

• Trainer: Linda Rice (19% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 16%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 66, Late 94

• Last Beyer: 85

• Field Beyer Average: 91

• Running Style: Closer

Comment: Bramito is a consistent performer for the Rice barn, and his late pace figures suggest he’ll be charging in the stretch. While he may lack the brilliance of the top choices, his ability to pick up pieces late makes him an appealing option in exotics. Carmouche is a skilled rider who fits Bramito’s off-the-pace style well.

#4 Victory Way (5-2)

• Jockey: J. Lezcano (16% in 2024)

• Trainer: William I. Mott (15% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 19%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 92, Late 84

• Last Beyer: 97

• Field Beyer Average: 91

• Running Style: Presser/Stalker

Comment: Victory Way is making his first start since August 2023, but Mott excels with horses returning off extended layoffs (19% win rate). This colt showed significant ability, including a gritty victory in allowance company. With his versatile running style and solid Beyers, he’s a major player if ready to fire off the bench.

Winner #5 El Grande O $3.20
Second #4 Victory Way $1 exacta $6.70

Race 5

Post: 2:10 PM ET Dirt

1 Mile | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | CLAIMING : $10,000 | Purse: $28,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 5 & 6, Pick 3 ($1) (5-7) Pick 4 (.50) (5-8)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 2-1 Winter's Ghost D. Davis 121 Lbs P. Reynolds $10,000 L

• 2 2 ML 20-1 Prince of Joy J. Davis 121 Lbs R. Legall $10,000 L

• 3 3 ML 15-1 Bert Bert Bert L. Luzzi 121 Lbs W. Potts $10,000 L

• 4 4 ML 5-1 Optic Way M. Franco 121 Lbs G. Rodriguez $10,000 L

• 5 5 ML 10-1 Front Man S. Vives 121 Lbs I. Kantarmaci $10,000 L

• 6 6 ML 20-1 Co Conspirator E. Ruiz 121 Lbs E. Jones $10,000 L

• 7 7 ML 6-5 Classic Mark C. Elliott 116 Lbs W. Potts $10,000 L

• 8 8 ML 12-1 Bronx Bomber W. Vasquez 121 Lbs O. Barrera III $10,000 L

Selections 7-8-4-1 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#7 Classic Mark (6-5)

• Jockey: C. Elliott (11% in 2024)

• Trainer: Wayne Potts (25% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 16%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 100, Late 66

• Last Beyer: 76

• Field Beyer Average: 71

• Running Style: Stalker

Comment: Classic Mark enters this race in strong form, finishing second in back-to-back outings at this level. His Beyer figures consistently exceed the field average, and his tactical speed should allow him to secure a perfect stalking position behind early speed. Elliott’s familiarity with this gelding adds confidence, and trainer Wayne Potts has been highly effective with claiming-level sprinters. Expect him to make a decisive late move in a field where he stands out in both class and consistency.

#8 Bronx Bomber (5-1)

• Jockey: W. Vasquez (10% in 2024)

• Trainer: Oscar Barrera III (11% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 0%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 69, Late 62

• Last Beyer: 58

• Field Beyer Average: 71

• Running Style: Closer

Comment: Value play has back class and should benefit from projected hot pace. Removing blinkers could help late kick. Strong record over Aqueduct main track with 6 wins. Could pick up pieces at a price if speed duel develops.

#4 Optic Way (5-1)

• Jockey: S. Francom (18% in 2024)

• Trainer: Gustavo Rodriguez (11% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 11%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 123, Late 55

• Last Beyer: 65

• Field Beyer Average: 71

• Running Style: Speed

Comment: Optic Way boasts the field’s highest early pace figure, which could allow him to control the race from the outset. However, his stamina over a mile is questionable, with past efforts showing a tendency to fade late. Still, his speed makes him dangerous if left unchallenged early, and he has enough speed to hang on for a minor placing.

#1 Winter’s Ghost (4-1)

• Jockey: D. Davis (19% in 2024)

• Trainer: Patrick Reynolds (8% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 15%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 115, Late 55

• Last Beyer: 76

• Field Beyer Average: 71

• Running Style: Speed/Presser

Comment: High-percentage rider stays aboard this consistent performer showing 7 wins from 35 starts and good recent form. Sharp early speed could make him dangerous on the front end. Strong record over Aqueduct main track.

Winner #4 Optic Way $11.80
Second #1 Optic Way $1 Exacta $14.10

Race 6

Post: 2:40 PM ET Dirt

7 Furlongs | Open | 3 Year Olds And Up | CLAIMING : $25,000 | Purse: $40,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 6 & 7, Pick 3 ($1) (6-8)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 2-1 Boss Tweed M. Franco 120 Lbs B. Cox $25,000 L

• 2 2 ML 15-1 More Vino J. Davis 120 Lbs C. Goberdhan $25,000 L

• 3 3 ML 12-1 Sin Nombre L. Luzzi 122 Lbs J. Romero $25,000 L

• 4 4 ML 7-2 Castle Island C. Elliott 117 Lbs K. Magee $25,000 L

• 5 5 ML 9-2 Lotsa Trouble K. Carmouche 120 Lbs T. Pletcher $25,000 L

• 6 6 ML 3-1 Abadin D. Davis 122 Lbs M. Maker $25,000 L

• 7 7 ML 20-1 Collect From Ike R. Silvera 122 Lbs J. Pregman, Jr. $25,000 L

• 8 8 ML 10-1 Good Reunion L. Rivera, Jr. 122 Lbs M. Nevin $25,000 L

Selections 6-1-5-4 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

#6 Abadin (3-1)

• Jockey: D. Davis (19% 2024)

• Trainer: M. Maker (15% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 19% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 103, Late 66

• Last Beyer: 72

• Running Style: Presser

Shows strong back class and consistent form at this level. Maker barn excellent with claimers. Has tactical speed to secure good position from middle post. Last race shows competitive figure after contesting pace. Well-spotted class drop from $50,000 level.

#1 Boss Tweed (2-1)

• Jockey: M. Franco (18% 2024)

• Trainer: B. Cox (27% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 33% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 106, Late 39

• Last Beyer: 52

• Running Style: Speed

High-percentage connections with Cox barn firing at 27% in 2024. Shows early speed and good form over track. Multiple wins at Aqueduct. Could control pace from inside post. Recent class drop suggests looking to win.

#5 Lotsa Trouble (9-2)

• Jockey: K. Carmouche (17% 2024)

• Trainer: T. Pletcher (18% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 24% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 66, Late 94

• Last Beyer: 59

• Running Style: Closer

Strong closing kick for top barn. Should benefit if pace battle develops up front. Pletcher excels with this move. Third off layoff with solid works showing. Could rally late at a decent price.

#4 Castle Island (7-2)

• Jockey: C. Elliott (10% 2024)

• Trainer: K. Magee (22% 2024)

• J/T Combo: New

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 92, Late 91

• Last Beyer: 67

• Running Style: Presser/Stalker

Perfect stalking style for projected pace scenario. Sharp recent form at similar level. Barn having strong year. Improving pattern in speed figures. Could sit perfect trip behind leaders.

Winner #5 Lotsa Trouble $12.60
Second #6 Abadin $1 Exacta $29.25

Race 7

Post: 3:09 PM ET Dirt

1 1/8 Miles | Fillies and Mares | 3 Year Olds And Up | ALLOWANCE OPTIONAL CLAIMING : $50,000 | Purse: $92,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10), Double ($1) 7 & 8

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 30-1 Anileate F. Martinez 116 Lbs J. Ferraro $50,000 L

• 2 2 ML 9-2 Stamp of Approval J. Velazquez 118 Lbs M. Hennig L

• 3 3 ML 30-1 Adeliese's Smile C. Elliott 116 Lbs J. Jimenez L

• 4 4 ML 7-2 Just Music J. Lezcano 120 Lbs L. Rice L

• 5 5 ML 2-1 Brown Suga Babe R. Silvera 120 Lbs J. Ness L

• 6 6 ML 7-2 Bernietakescharge R. Maragh 120 Lbs D. Schettino L

• 7 7 ML 3-1 Fade to Grey K. Carmouche 120 Lbs T. Pletcher L

•  

Selections 5-6-4-7 Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐

#5 Brown Suga Babe (2-1)

• Jockey: R. Silvera (12% 2024)

• Trainer: J. Ness (25% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 23% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 105, Late 74

• Last Beyer: 82

• Running Style: Presser

In peak form for high-percentage Ness barn, winning 3 of last 4 starts including game victory last out against similar. Tactical speed to secure good position. Strong speed figures and proven at route distance. Positive jockey/trainer combo stats.

#6 Bernietakescharge (7-2)

• Jockey: R. Maragh (9% 2024)

• Trainer: D. Schettino (7% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 10% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 93, Late 63

• Last Beyer: 83

• Running Style: Stalker

Strong back class as stakes performer with solid form at this level. Perfect stalking style for projected pace. Won last start over track with career-best figure. Two wins over Aqueduct surface shows affinity for track.

#4 Just Music (7-2)

• Jockey: J. Lezcano (16% 2024)

• Trainer: L. Rice (17% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 22% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 81, Late 91

• Last Beyer: 73

• Running Style: Closer

Consistent runner from Rice barn hitting board in 12 of 15 starts. Should benefit from projected pace scenario. Fresh off good effort at this level. Strong closing kick proven effective at route distance.

#7 Fade to Grey (3-1)

• Jockey: K. Carmouche (17% 2024)

• Trainer: T. Pletcher (18% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 24% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 93, Late 87

• Last Beyer: 71

• Running Style: Presser

Lightly-raced improver from top barn. Maiden win at distance shows route ability. Working steadily for return. Could step forward in third start off layoff.

Winner #4 Just Music $8.80
Second #7 Fade to Grey $1 exacta $22.60
Third #5 Brown Suga Babe $.50 Trifectda $31.75
Fourth #6 Bernietakescharge .10 S upper $13.60

Race 8

Post: 3:38 PM ET Dirt

1 Mile | Auction | Open | 2 Year Olds | MAIDEN OPTIONAL CLAIMING : $50,000 | Purse: $70,000 Exacta ($1), Trifecta (.50), Super (.10)

• # PP ODDS Horse Jockey Weight Trainer Claim $ Med.

• 1 1 ML 6-1 Arcadian J. Velazquez 119 Lbs G. Sacco

• 2 2 ML 3-1 Laird of Magnolia D. Davis 119 Lbs P. Reynolds $50,000

• 3 3 ML 5-1 Tapizar's Temper K. Carmouche 119 Lbs J. Antonucci

• 4 4 ML 12-1 Daw Samaa M. Franco 119 Lbs I. Kantarmaci

• 5 5 ML 10-1 Ready Set Twirl R. Silvera 119 Lbs R. Rodriguez

• 6 6 ML 8-1 Willingness R. Maragh 119 Lbs R. Handal $50,000

• 7 7 ML 6-1 Brave Bear J. Lezcano 119 Lbs M. Friedman

• 8 8 ML 5-2 Steel Vengeance C. Elliott 114 Lbs W. Potts $50,000

Selections 2-8-3-7 Rating ⭐⭐⭐

#2 Laird of Magnolia (3-1)

• Jockey: D. Davis (24% in 2024)

• Trainer: Patrick Reynolds (8% in 2024)

• Jockey/Trainer Combo 2023-24: 15%

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 58, Late 87

• Last Beyer: 60

• Field Beyer Average: 48

• Running Style: Closer

Comment: Laird of Magnolia steps down into maiden claiming company after a solid effort against tougher maidens. His best finish came on turf, but his dirt form holds up well, and his late kick should suit today’s distance. Davis is riding at a high percentage, and with expected pace upfront, this gelding’s strong closing figures position him as a top contender.

#8 Steel Vengeance (5-2)

• Jockey: C. Elliott (10% 2024)

• Trainer: W. Potts (13% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: 11% at AQU

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 112, Late 34

• Last Beyer: 43

• Running Style: Presser

First start for high-percentage Potts barn after showing promise in debut at Churchill. Consistent work pattern indicates maintenance of form. Should sit good stalking trip with tactical speed.

#3 Tapizar's Temper (5-1)

• Jockey: K. Carmouche (17% 2024)

• Trainer: J. Antonucci (9% 2024)

• J/T Combo: New

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 91, Late 46

• Last Beyer: 50

• Running Style: Stalker

Improving form with better figures in each start. Gets positive rider switch to Carmouche. Has shown ability to rate and should benefit from projected hot pace scenario.

#7 Brave Bear (6-1)

• Jockey: J. Lezcano (16% 2024)

• Trainer: M. Friedman (11% 2024)

• J/T Combo 2023-24: First time

• TimeformUS Pace: Early 115, Late 45

• Last Beyer: 43

• Running Style: Speed

Showed good early speed last out going this distance before tiring. Strong recent works indicate readiness. Should be prominent from the start with high early pace figure.

Winner #7 Brave Bear $11.60
Second #3 Tapizar's Temper $1 exacta $23.10