Saratoga Report #6

Will Take Charges Wins the Travers

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Will Take Charge (KY) – Much to the delight of the Racing Dudes and Oaklawn fans everywhere, Will Take Charge waited to get on the big stage at Saratoga before finally breaking through with two big races in a row.  After struggling through the Triple Crown, the 17 hand chestnut was a solid second in the Jim Dandy, before running the race of his life and winning the Travers last Saturday.  He sat the perfect trip with rider Luis Saez aboard, and was able to make up three to four lengths in the stretch to nip Moreno right on the wire.  The win also made Will Take Charge a millionaire, and puts him into the mix for three-year old of the year.  The Pennsylvania  Derby or Jockey Club Gold Cup will be next for him, with the long-term goal being the Breeders Cup Classic.

– 2nd Star: Royal Delta (KY) – While Will Take Charge won the tracks biggest race, the biggest performance of the weekend may have come from two-time defending Breeders Cup Ladies champion Royal Delta.  After struggling a bit to start the year, Royal Delta has returned to her flawless form, winning the last two races with no trouble whatsoever.  It’s interesting to note that her last two races have been without Lasix, a move that must be credited to trainer Bill Mott.  She is without a doubt the number one older mare in the country, and should be heading into the Breeders Cup in perfect shape.

– 3rd Star: Capo Bastone (KY) – The OTHER Pletcher horse got the job done in the King’s Bishop!  The race came up as one of the stronger races of the year, and as expected the pace up front was very hot.  It was expected that Forty Tales or Declan’s Warrior would be the faster of the closing horses, but it was Capo Bastone that made the strongest of the late charges, and he easily passed Mentor Cane to win by two lengths.  Since shortening up to sprint races Capo Bastone has improved tremendously, but still he paid $58.50 for a $2 win bet on Saturday.  No plans are set in stone for him yet, but he may have tossed his hat into the Breeders Cup Sprint discussion with this solid effort.

The Travers (Grade 1) Preview

Free Past Performances

1. Romansh 12-1

Race Record: (4) 2-1-0

Earnings: $123,580

Jockey: Javier Castellano

Trainer: Tom Albertrani

Graded Stakes Victories: NONE

The Verdict: In a race loaded with stars, its tough to back a horse that has actually only gotten to the wire first one time.  He did officially “win” the Curlin Stakes last time out, but it was because of a disqualification.  His price will be intriguing and his connections are strong, but I think there are better long shots to play in this race.

2. Orb 4-1

Race Record: (10) 5-0-2

Earnings: $2,505,850

Jockey: Joel Rosario

Trainer: Shug McGaughey

Graded Stakes Victories: 3 – Grade 2 Fountain of Youth, Grade 1 Florida Derby, Grade 1 Kentucky Derby

The Verdict: The Kentucky Derby winner looks to be back to his best form leading up to this race.  After running in all three Triple Crown races you could tell he may have been a little tired by the end of it, as his third place Belmont effort was fairly average.  We’ve all seen that he can fire fresh, and his workouts have been perfect according to his connections.  One question remains…did the slop on Kentucky Derby day move this horse from very good to elite?  His fast dirt performances haven’t been quite as strong as the Derby day slop romp.  A must use horse in all exotics, but others appeal more to me on the win end of things.

3. Verrazano 2-1

Race Record: (7) 6-0-0

Earnings: $1,511,300

Jockey: John Velazquez

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Graded Stakes Victories: 4 – Grade 2 Tampa Bay Derby, Grade 1 Wood Memorial, Grade 3 Pegasus Stakes, Grade 1 Haskell Invitational

The Verdict: This one is clearly a freak.  If you throw out his poor Kentucky Derby slop performance, this horse is six for six and hasn’t even been challenged in his races.  So with him, the question is very simple…was his poor Kentucky Derby performance because of the slop, or because of the distance?  If you think it was the slop, then you have to be all over him here.  If you think it was the distance, then you must be loving that he’s going to be taking a lot of money Saturday afternoon.  Personally I believe the slop did him no favors, but I also believe this mile and one-quarter distance is not his ideal spot.  Hes horse that should be used in exotics, but he’s a favorite that is worth trying to beat.

4. Golden Soul 20-1

Race Record: (8) 1-3-0

Earnings: $527,400

Jockey: Robby Albarado

Trainer: Dallas Stewart

Graded Stakes Victories: NONE

The Verdict: Take out his fluke performance in the Kentucky Derby and we probably wouldn’t know this horses name by now.  Since that race he’s done very little, and I just don’t think this race will be much different.  The price will be very good for a Kentucky Derby runner-up horse, but I think you have to draw a line through that race.

5. Will Take Charge 10-1

Race Record: (11) 3-2-0

Earnings: $665,371

Jockey: Luis Saez

Trainer: D Wayne Lukas

Graded Stakes Victories: 1 – Grade 2 Rebel Stakes

The Verdict: Here he is again, a handicappers worst nightmare.  Will Take Charge has been as inconsistent as a horse could possibly be this year.  After winning the Rebel Stakes and looking as though he was going to run huge in the Kentucky Derby before being stopped, he then ran back to back poor races in the Preakness and Belmont.  D Wayne Lukas took the blinkers off for the Jim Dandy Stakes last time out, and the horse ran the best race of his career, finishing a solid second to Palace Malice.  So now the hype is back, but will he disappoint again?  I’ll say what I’ve been saying about him for months now…play him in a way to where he can’t beat you.  Sprinkle him lightly on your tickets, but don’t but him in a position where you have to rely on him.

6. Moreno 12-1

Race Record: (12) 2-3-2

Earnings: $275,440

Jockey: Jose Ortiz

Trainer: Eric Guillot

Graded Stakes Victories: 1 – Grade 2 Dwyer Stakes

The Verdict: Honestly, it’s very hard to know what to make of this horse.  It took him ten tries to finally break his maiden, but since then he’s won the Grade 2 Dwyer, and finished a solid third in the Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes.  His front end running style will always give him a chance at Saratoga, but can he actually be good enough to make an impact here.  Maybe a small play to pull the upset, but tread lightly.

7. War Dancer 15-1

Race Record: (7) 3-2-1

Earnings: $418,569

Jockey: Alan Garcia

Trainer: Ken McPeek

Graded Stakes Victories: 1 – Grade 2 Virginia Derby

The Verdict: Really tough spot to try to pick up your first dirt win.  War Dancer has run just once on the turf, and finished fourth beaten six lengths in a maiden special weight at Gulfstream Park.  On the turf it’s been a different story for him as he won the Virginia Derby last time out.  Looks to me they are just taking a shot with him in this one so he’s probably not worth much of a look.

8. Palace Malice 5-2

Race Record: (9) 3-3-1

Earnings: $1,231,135

Jockey: Mike Smith

Trainer: Todd Pletcher

Graded Stakes Victories: 2 – Grade 1 Belmont Stakes, Grade 2 Jim Dandy Stakes

The Verdict: I have to stick with what I saw on Belmont day…this is the horse of the summer.  After putting in superb workouts leading up to that race, he was the clear winner.  Since the Belmont he’s done everything right, and his Jim Dandy win was probably his best career race.  The horse has come into his own with age and experience, and just seems to be thriving right now.  I expect the biggest performance of his career on Saturday, and for him to become the leader in the three-year old division.

9. Transparent 10-1

Race Record: (9) 2-1-1

Earnings: $112,784

Jockey: Irad Ortiz Jr.

Trainer: Kiaran McLaughlin

Graded Stakes Victories: NONE

The Verdict: If you are thinking upset, this might be the horse to look into.  He actually finished ahead in the Curlin Stakes last time out by two lengths, but was disqualified and placed fifth.  However, it was very clear that he was the best horse in that race, and his slow and steady improvement is something you like to see.  Yes, the class test is very steep, but he may be the horse that jumps up and ruins your trifecta and superfecta wagers.  Dangerous…

Saratoga Report #5

Princess of Sylmar was Brilliant in Winning the Alabama

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Princess of Sylmar (PA) – There is no questioning who the best three-year old filly is now…Princess of Sylmar is above and beyond them all!  Saturday’s Grade 1 Alabama win was another dominating effort, as she won by almost three lengths, but it might as well have been twenty considering how she was seemingly geared down towards the end of the race.  What happens next for Princess of Sylmar is a bit touchy, as she is not Breeders Cup nominated.  There are talks of shutting her down for the year, or maybe running the Cotillion at Parx in September.  No matter what happens next, Princess of Sylmar has left little doubt that she is a super star.

– 2nd Star: Big Blue Kitten (KY) – This was the horse that kicked off the Ramsey Grade 1 hat trick on Saturday, and he did it in stylish fashion!  Using his normal come from behind tactics, Big Blue Kitten stormed from 10th around the far turn and was able to get up without much drama in the end as he won by a length on the wire.  It was a nifty ride by jockey Joe Bravo, considering the pace was much slower than expected.  He’s now won ten of seventeen lifetime starts, including back to back Grade 1 victories.  The Ramsey’s have plenty of options for the Breeders Cup, and Big Blue Kitten may have earned a chance to go there in November.

– 3rd Star: Caroline Thomas (KY) –  It was a roughly ran renewal of the Lack Placid Stakes on Sunday, and in the end it was Caroline Thomas that was declared the winner as Nellie Cashman was disqualified and placed third for interference in the stretch run.  The “win” was Caroline Thomas’ first win of the year, and also the first Graded stakes win of her career.  The fact the she was ran well was a surprise to many as she was coming off a very poor effort last time out in an ungraded stakes here at Saratoga.  She returned $25.20 for a two dollar win ticket, and was the third longest price on the board.

Saratoga Report #4

Wise Dan Just Keeps Winning

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Wise Dan (KY) – The defending Fourstardave winner was back to defend his title, and he was simply brilliant in winning it for the second straight year on Saturday.  Carrying ten or more pounds than every other runner in the field, Wise Dan easily defeated his five rivals like they were a bunch of 5k claimers.  The win was his eighth in a row, and his seventieth win in twenty-four starts.  It’s obvious that last year’s Horse of the Year hasn’t lost a step, and should be right on track to become a back to back Breeders Cup Turf Mile Champion.  His race schedule is under much scrutiny, but lets all just enjoy this great champion while we have the chance!

– 2nd Star: Corfu (KY) – After digging down deep just 17 days ago to break his maiden, Corfu returned Sunday to win the Saratoga Special…and he had to DIG DEEP again to get the job done!  After setting blistering early fractions, Corfu stubbornly held off a pesky Wired Bryan and a let charge from his stable mate Danza.  The win makes Corfu 2 for 2 on his career, and also makes him a very early leader of the two-year old division.  Corfu reminds me a lot of Pletcher’s dominant two-year old of last year; Shanghai Bobby.  With his early turn of foot, he should be very hard to beat in one turn races.

– 3rd Star: Designer Legs (LA) – It took a disqualification, but it was still a tally in the win column for Designer Legs in the Adirondack Stakes.  She was actually beaten by a neck by Who’s in Town, but Who’s in Town interfered with favorite Fiftyshadesofgold in he stretch run and was disqualified.  The win was a fascinating one considering Designer Legs was coming off a maiden win at Canterbury and a small stakes win at Prairie Meadows.  Those two tracks and Saratoga don’t usually mix, but it’s obvious that this horse can run with anyone in the division right now.  She ended up being the second longest price on the board, and paid $35.00 to win.  She’s now three for three lifetime, and will most likely be pointed towards graded stakes for the rest of the season.

Saratoga Report #3

Cross Traffic Wins the Whitney Handicap

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Cross Traffic (KY) – The tough luck horse of the year finally got his first stakes victory in the Whitney Handicap Saturday, and it was impressive!  After taking the field through decent fractions, and weaving in and out down the stretch, Cross Traffic was a convincing three-quarter length winner in the end.  Whether he could stretch out to nine furlongs was in question coming into this one, as well as if he was classy enough, but he left little doubt on Saturday.  The win vaults him to the top of the older male division, and puts him right into the mix of Breeders Cup Classic contenders.  Just another horse to add to Todd Pletcher’s growing list of supers stars!

– 2nd Star: Justin Phillip (KY) – If you love horse racing, then you had to LOVE seeing Justin Phillip finally get his first Grade 1 victory Sunday in the Vanderbilt Handicap.  The horse also became a millionaire with the win, and may have put himself at the top of the list when it comes to sprinters, along with his stable mate Fast Bullet.  The race set up perfectly for his fast closing style, and for the victory he earned a beyer speed figure of 109.  He’s been as honest as they come for four years now, so this was a well deserved victory.  The Breeders Cup Sprint will now be the goal for the old pro, where he should be very competitive.

– 3rd Star: Saginaw (NY) – Speaking of horses you should love, Saginaw is definitely another one to put on that list.  The amazing New York bred horse has now won 21 of 40 races, including a perfect five for five on the year!  The win also gives Saginaw $974,690 in total earning, so it’s easy to see that he should become a millionaire with his next race.  While he’s never won a graded stakes, Saginaw is still a joy to watch.  Maybe a test against out-of-state competition is in order for his next race.

Saratoga Report #2

Palace Malice Takes the Jim Dandy

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Palace Malice (KY) – The Belmont took nothing out of this horse, as Palace Malice ran his career best race in winning the Jim Dandy Saturday afternoon.  The final time was the 2nd fastest in Jim Dandy history, and puts him in a position to become the top ranked three-year old in the country next to his stable mate Verrazano.  Much like his father Curlin, Palace Malice looks to be developing to maximum potential late in his three-year old year.  He’ll move on to the Travers next, where he should be tough to handle once again.  Because the caliber of this years Travers Stakes is so strong, a win in that race will be critical to the three-year old horse of the year award.

– 2nd Star: Laughing (IRE) – Laughing all the way to the bank!!  Those that backed her in the Diana Stakes had to be smiling from ear to ear as Laughing set the softest of fractions, and was able to just barely hold off Dream Peace to win by a head at the end.  This was Laughing’s first Grade 1 victory to go along with a pair of Grade 3 victories as well.  It also gives her back to back victories, and suggests that she can be competitive in more races of this caliber in the future which is something I was unsure of going into the race.

– 3rd Star: Lighthouse Bay (KY) – When Kauai Katie and So Many Ways started to falter at the top of the stretch, you knew a big price was coming in, you just didn’t know who it was going to be.  Lighthouse Bay had shown a sign of improvement in winning an ungraded stakes at Parx last time out, but obviously this was a huge improvement on Saturday.  The win will most likely propel her into the Test Stakes on Travers day.

Flop of the Week

– Kauai Katie (KY) – This could be one of the biggest puzzlers of the whole season so far.  Kauai Katie looked unbeatable at six furlongs, but was DEAD LAST in the Prioress Stakes this Saturday.  She never looked comfortable from the start of things, and struggled to keep with a pace that is usually moderate for her.  She did lose a shoe in the race, so maybe that gives us some sort of explanation.  As of now she has to be listed as a horse that has started to decline a bit.

Trainer Standings

Rank	Trainer Name	Sts	1st	2nd	3rd	Total $		Win%	Top3	Top3%
1	Todd A. Pletcher	31	12	2	5	$1,273,507		39%	19	61%
2	William I. Mott	23	5	4	2	$349,115		22%	11	48%
3	Chad C. Brown	25	4	4	6	$520,719		16%	14	56%
3	George Weaver	10	4	1	1	$350,823		40%	6	60%
3	Steven M. Asmussen	18	4	5	1	$313,852		22%	10	56%
3	David Jacobson	19	4	0	4	$153,194		21%	8	42%
7	Michael J. Maker	22	3	2	5	$227,524		14%	10	45%
7	Albert M. Stall, Jr.	6	3	1	1	$185,084		50%	5	83%
7	Wesley A. Ward	14	3	2	2	$171,225		21%	7	50%
7	Michael E. Hushion	7	3	0	0	$138,466		43%	3	43%
7	Dominic G. Galluscio	8	3	0	0	$90,639		38%	3	38%
12	Thomas Albertrani	19	2	4	1	$216,456		11%	7	37%
12	Kiaran P. McLaughlin	18	2	3	1	$181,286		11%	6	33%
12	Christophe Clement	16	2	2	5	$172,010		13%	9	56%
12	Rudy R. Rodriguez	22	2	4	4	$167,025		9%	10	45%
12	Claude R. McGaughey III	8	2	0	3	$155,000		25%	5	63%
12	Jason Servis	9	2	1	0	$116,783		22%	3	33%
12	Mitchell E. Friedman	7	2	0	1	$97,675		29%	3	43%
12	John P. Terranova, II	5	2	0	1	$75,693		40%	3	60%
12	Carlos F. Martin	6	2	0	2	$74,000		33%	4	67%

Jockey Standings

Rank	Jockey Name	Sts	1st	2nd	3rd	Total $		Win%	Top3	Top3%
1	Joel Rosario	85	16	16	13	$1,438,467		19%	45	53%
2	Javier Castellano	81	13	13	13	$1,144,610		16%	39	48%
3	John R. Velazquez	59	9	7	9	$834,820		15%	25	42%
4	Jose Lezcano	62	6	4	9	$795,003		10%	19	31%
4	Cornelio H. Velasquez	47	6	3	6	$377,523		13%	15	32%
6	Rosie Napravnik	57	5	10	7	$472,568		9%	22	39%
6	Luis Saez	61	5	6	5	$422,880		8%	16	26%
8	Junior Alvarado	36	4	2	3	$380,535		11%	9	25%
8	Jose L. Ortiz	47	4	5	3	$349,771		9%	12	26%
8	Joseph Rocco, Jr.	32	4	0	0	$328,568		13%	4	13%
8	Rajiv Maragh	49	4	4	8	$285,660		8%	16	33%
8	Alex O. Solis	21	4	2	1	$250,027		19%	7	33%
8	Jose L. Espinoza	27	4	1	3	$172,560		15%	8	30%
14	Mike E. Smith	5	3	0	1	$462,800		60%	4	80%
14	Irad Ortiz, Jr.	57	3	8	6	$323,811		5%	17	30%
16	Robby Albarado	27	2	4	3	$236,855		7%	9	33%
16	Edgar S. Prado	22	2	6	3	$198,547		9%	11	50%
16	Paco Lopez	7	2	0	1	$95,130		29%	3	43%

Preview to Next Week

– Wednesday – The John’s Call – Three Year Olds and Upward – 1 5/8 (Turf) – Purse: $100,000

– Thursday – The John Morrissey Stakes – New York Breds, Three Year Olds and Upward – 6 1/2 Furlongs – Purse: $100,000

– Thursday – A. P. Smithwick Memorial – Four Year Olds and Upward – 2 1/16 Miles (Steeplechase) – Purse: $100,000

– Friday – The Sportech Caress Stakes – FIlly and Mares 3 Year Olds and Upward – 5 1/2 Furlongs (Turf) – Purse: $100,000

– Saturday – The De La Rose Stakes – Filly and Mares 3 Year Olds and Upward – One Mile (Turf) – Purse: $100,000

– Saturday – The Whitney Handicap (Grade 1) – 3 Year Olds and Upward – 1 1/8 Miles – Purse: $750,000

– Sunday – The Vanderbilt Handicap (Grade 1) – 3 Year Olds and Upward – 6 Furlongs – Purse: $400,000

– Monday – The Waya Stakes – Filly and Mares 3 Year Olds and Upward – 1 1/2 Miles (Turf) – Purse: $100,000

Jim Dandy Stakes (Grade 2) Preview

Palace Malice Looks for a Big Second Half of the Season

Likely Winners

#5 Palace Malice (KY) – He’s the obvious choice in this spot considering his Belmont victory, and his massive workouts.  Todd Pletcher is not usually one to over exaggerate a horses talents, so his high praise for Palace Malice means a lot.  The son of Curlin looks to be coming on at the right time just like his daddy did.  The Belmont bounce is the only question mark.

#8 Mylute (KY) – Always the bridesmaid, never the bride!  Mylute has run three straight solid races in a row, but has had to settle for minor awards in each of them.  This spot isn’t any easier than what he’s faced this year, but he should be coming into this one rested and ready to go.  Logical second choice.

Exotic Plays

#3 Will Take Charge (KY) – America’s most inconsistent horse is back!  Will Take Charge was super in winning the Rebel Stakes in March over Preakness winner Oxbow, and as we all know he was getting ready to run a big Kentucky Derby until he had major traffic issues.  His Preakness and Belmont races were disappointing, but perhaps the freshening is what this horse needs.  Lukas knows he can have him ready to fire off a layoff, so he could be dangerous here.

#2 Code West (VA) – We’ve been high on this horse since February, and as of late he’s been running solid races.  His grind it out style suits this distance, and his ability to be towards the front will suit the Saratoga surface well.  Definitely one to play underneath, but not one that has a great chance of winning.

#4 Moreno (KY) – Huge blowout winner of the Dwyer Stakes is back looking for more, and with a repeat performance he’ll have a big chance.  Another one that is a worth playing underneath, but can he put back to back big races in a row together?  Playing the wait and see game with him.

#7 Freedom Child (KY) – This horse went into the Belmont with a ton of hype, but he was basically ran into the ground by Oxbow and was done before they even entered the turn.  The distance cut back is going to be a big help for him here, and the paces should be a little more to his liking.  If he can bounce out of that Belmont race with a little steam left, he could be one to pull an upset.

Party Crashers

#9 Looking Cool (KY) – Quietly, this horse is improving and flying under the radar.  His connections know exactly what they are doing, and his win last time out in the Iowa Derby was easily his best race yet.  This is going to be a class test for him, but I wouldn’t be totally surprised if he shows up and runs a nice race.

Throw Outs

#1 Bashaar (KY) – He may have been the best in his last two races, and there is no question the added distance is what he needs. However this will be a big class test for him, and the excuses are getting old.  Nice horse with some ability, but can’t support today.

#6 Perfect Title (KY) – The horse is progressing nicely, but this looks to be too steep of a class test for him at this time.

#10 Vyjack (KY) – Just looks like this horse needs a distance cutback which they have not allowed him to do.  Not sure there is much left in the tank.

Saratoga Report #1

Princess of Sylmar was a Massive Winner in the CCA Oaks

Three Stars of the Week

– 1st Star: Princess of Sylmar (PA) – This was the performance of the weekend, no matter what track you are talking about.  The Kentucky Oaks winner finally returned to the track Saturday, and absolutely crushed her four rivals in the Coaching Club American Oaks.  The win makes her the obvious choice for best three-year old filly in the country, and also gets you wondering if she might just be the best three-year old period!  Many local pundits felt her stable mate Unlimited Budget was the one to beat in this race, but she disposed of her early on.  My Happy Face set the pace, but was also absolutely no match for Princess of Sylmar.  This race should propel her to the Grade 1 Alabama next time out where she’ll look to continue her dominance over the division.

– 2nd Star: Authenticity (KY) – While Princess of Sylmar made her presence felt in the three-year old filly division, Authenticity did the same in the older filly and mare division when she easily won the Shuvee Handicap on Saturday.  While she still has the monster that is Royal Delta ahead of her in the rankings, Authenticity has proven she’s more than a one hit wonder.  This year she’s gotten better with every race, and the win on Saturday makes her a two-time Graded stakes winner.  Her solid Saratoga form is great news as now a date with Royal Delta and Tiz Miz Sue looms large in the Personal Ensign a few weeks down the road.  A win in that race would elevate her to the top of her class, and it’s something that’s not totally out of the question for this rising superstar.

– 3rd Star: Sage Valley (KY) – Meet the horse that is starting to really become a fan favorite!  After being somewhat average the first four races of his career, Sage Valley has rattled off five wins in his last six starts, including two wins against Grade 3 company.  His latest victory in the James Marvin on Friday could have been his most impressive yet.  After sitting just off a fairly strong pace, Sage Valley had plenty left in the stretch and drew off to a convincing one length victory.  The win could springboard him into the Grade 1 Forego, which will be ran on closing weekend of the meet.

Flop of the Week

– Unlimited Budget (FL) – The Coaching Club American Oaks was supposed to be hers for the taking, but it turned out to be a brutal day.  Right from the start there was trouble, as she struck the right side of the starting gate as the gates opened.  She did somewhat recover and was in a decent spot for part of the race, but she had no response down the stretch.  The result was a disastrous last place effort, and beaten fifteen lengths.  Perhaps the Belmont took its toll on her, or maybe it just wasn’t her day.  Time to regroup…

Trainer Standings

Rank	Trainer Name	Sts	1st	2nd	3rd	Total $		Win%	Top3	Top3%
1	Todd A. Pletcher	14	5	1	3	$507,698		36%	9	64%
2	Steven M. Asmussen	7	3	1	0	$192,486		43%	4	57%
3	Chad C. Brown	14	2	1	3	$193,797		14%	6	43%
3	William I. Mott	7	2	1	0	$119,024		29%	3	43%
3	David Jacobson	12	2	0	2	$90,250		17%	4	33%
3	Dominic G. Galluscio	6	2	0	0	$66,189		33%	2	33%
7	Michael Dilger	1	1	0	0	$220,000		100%	1	100%
7	Gary C. Contessa	16	1	2	2	$105,826		6%	5	31%
7	Christophe Clement	7	1	1	2	$91,910		14%	4	57%
7	H. Graham Motion	5	1	2	0	$91,020		20%	3	60%
7	Kiaran P. McLaughlin	7	1	2	0	$85,589		14%	3	43%
7	Rudy R. Rodriguez	7	1	1	1	$84,864		14%	3	43%
7	Bruce R. Brown	9	1	1	1	$79,017		11%	3	33%
7	Mark A. Hennig	4	1	1	1	$67,400		25%	3	75%
7	Nicholas P. Zito	5	1	0	2	$65,429		20%	3	60%
7	Jason Servis	5	1	1	0	$63,848		20%	2	40%
7	George Weaver	2	1	1	0	$62,400		50%	2	100%
7	W. Bret Calhoun	1	1	0	0	$60,000		100%	1	100%
7	David G. Donk	1	1	0	0	$60,000		100%	1	100%
7	Rodrigo A. Ubillo	1	1	0	0	$60,000		100%	1	100%
7	Michael J. Maker	12	1	1	3	$59,168		8%	5	42%
7	Mitchell E. Friedman	5	1	0	1	$58,450		20%	2	40%
7	Dale L. Romans	4	1	0	1	$58,264		25%	2	50%
7	Andrew Mitchell	3	1	0	0	$57,640		33%	1	33%
7	Kathleen M. Feron	2	1	1	0	$56,400		50%	2	100%
7	David P. Duggan	2	1	1	0	$53,800		50%	2	100%
7	John P. Terranova, II	2	1	0	0	$45,250		50%	1	50%
7	Ian R. Wilkes	2	1	0	0	$45,250		50%	1	50%
7	Michael E. Hushion	1	1	0	0	$43,200		100%	1	100%
7	Rodolfo Romero	1	1	0	0	$43,200		100%	1	100%
7	Randi Persaud	3	1	0	0	$24,435		33%	1	33%
7	Jack O. Fisher	2	1	0	0	$24,205		50%	1	50%

Jockey Standings

Rank	Jockey Name	Sts	1st	2nd	3rd	Total $		Win%	Top3	Top3%
1	Javier Castellano	32	5	5	7	$493,909		16%	17	53%
1	John R. Velazquez	33	5	4	6	$479,017		15%	15	45%
1	Joel Rosario	37	5	6	6	$448,190		14%	17	46%
4	Rosie Napravnik	29	3	5	2	$282,253		10%	10	34%
4	Cornelio H. Velasquez	23	3	1	3	$213,117		13%	7	30%
4	Rajiv Maragh	27	3	0	4	$168,790		11%	7	26%
7	Jose Lezcano	28	2	0	4	$172,432		7%	6	21%
7	Jose L. Ortiz	20	2	3	0	$139,194		10%	5	25%
7	Joseph Rocco, Jr.	15	2	0	0	$114,529		13%	2	13%
7	Alex O. Solis	11	2	1	0	$104,322		18%	3	27%
11	Shaun Bridgmohan	5	1	0	1	$232,070		20%	2	40%
11	Luis Saez	29	1	1	1	$124,965		3%	3	10%
11	Irad Ortiz, Jr.	17	1	3	1	$117,369		6%	5	29%
11	Robby Albarado	13	1	1	2	$110,047		8%	4	31%
11	Paco Lopez	3	1	0	1	$64,320		33%	2	67%
11	Corey J. Lanerie	2	1	0	0	$60,328		50%	1	50%
11	Alan Garcia	4	1	0	0	$56,015		25%	1	25%
11	Abel Lezcano	8	1	0	1	$51,492		13%	2	25%
11	Jose L. Espinoza	7	1	0	0	$46,456		14%	1	14%
11	David Cohen	9	1	1	0	$46,193		11%	2	22%

Preview to Next Week

– Wednesday – The Lake George (Grade 2) – Three Year Old Fillies – 1 1/16 Miles (Turf) – Purse: $200,000

– Thursday – The Quick Call Stakes – Three Year Olds – 5 1/2 Furlongs (Turf) – Purse: $100,000

– Friday – The Curling Stakes – Three Year Olds – 1 1/8 Miles – Purse: $100,000

– Saturday – The Jim Dandy (Grade 2) – Three Year Olds – 1 1/8 Miles – Purse: $600,000

– Saturday – The Diana Stakes (Grade 1) – Fillies and Mares Three Year Olds and Upward – 1 1/8 Miles (Turf) – Purse: $600,000

– Saturday – The Prioress Stakes (Grade 1) – Three Year Old Fillies – Six Furlongs – Purse: $300,000

– Sunday – The Amsterdam Stakes (Grade 2) – Three Year Olds – 6 1/2 Furlongs – Purse: $200,000

– Monday – Honorable Miss Handicap (Grade 2) – Fillies and Mares Three Year Olds and Upward – Six Furlongs – Purse: $200,000

Saratoga Opening Day Graded Stakes Preview

Sage Valley

James Marvin Stakes (Grade 3)

The Pick: #5 Jaguar Paw

The Longshot: #8 Laurie’s Rocket

1. Politicallycorrect (KY) – Last summer/fall this horse really had put it all together, but this year hasn’t been as kind.  His best race matches up very well with these, and I think we might see a big performance.

2. Hello Lover (MD) – This old gelding is certainly a cool horse, but he may be a bit out-classed in this tough spot.

3. Souper Speedy (FL) – The winner of two in row looks like he’s in the best form of his life.  He beat Politicallycorrect by a couple of lengths in the Jaipur Stakes last time out.  Morning Line favoritism might be questionable, but he will compete.

4. Sage Valley (KY) – He capped off a four race win streak with a dominating performance in the Grade 3 Maryland Sprint Handicap, but did regress when finishing fifth in the Grade 2 True North Handicap next time.  He certainly looks to be the class of the field, and actually I thought he might be the favorite in here but can be had at a ML of 5/1.

5. Jaguar Paw (KY) – He’s coming in off two straight victories, but there is no doubt this is a class test for him.  His only other Graded stakes race did not go well, but this is a different set of circumstances for him in this one.

6. Willyconker (IRE) – Trainer Eric Guillot says he’ll likely scratch for an easier allowance race on Saturday.

7. Right to Vote (KY) – Another one that is going to receive a class test, but his performance in the Kelly’s Landing Stakes last time out shows he’s definitely ready for the test.  His best race gives him a big time chance.

8. Laurie’s Rocket (KY) – The toughest sprinter in the country is back for more!  Laurie’s Rocket has run in every tough sprint in the country so far this year, but hasn’t been able to win one.  Definitely not a horse you want to leave off the bottom of exotics, but also not one you want to bet to win.

9. Strapping Groom (KY) – Yet another horse trying Graded company for the first time, and yet another horse that looks like he’s ready for the challenge.  He’s coming off an ungraded stakes win at Belmont last time out.

Yes Liz

Schuylerville Stakes (Grade 3)

The Pick: #1 Elena Strikes and #1A Yes Liz

The Longshot: #6 True Blue Nation

1. Elena Strikes (KY) – Sharp maiden winner coming in from Monmouth, and you have to love the connections as Pletcher has dominated in this race.  I’m a bit curious that her debut was at Monmouth and not Belmont, but perhaps they were just looking to get her maiden broke so she could get into this race.

1A. Yes Liz (FL) – There is no questioning that this coupled entry is the overwhelming choice in my eyes, yet they are the 5/2 ML second choice.  Yes Liz is probably the better of the two entries, and would be my pick even if she was by herself.

2. Jonesin for Jerry (MD) – Obviously her maiden win came at a smaller track than most of these, but sometimes Delaware shippers can sneak up to the spa and win.  However, I can’t see it happening in this case.

3. Silver Valley (KY) – This big time maiden winner was purchased privately shortly after the race, and ran a decent fourth in the Debutante Stakes last time out.  Moquett has his horses running well, and I don’t think you can dismiss this one.

4. Brazen Persuasion (KY) – This was one of Asmussen’s many two-year old winners at Churchill although it did take her two attempts to pick up a victory.  I like that Rosie stays on to ride, and she did run a speed figure that compares favorably to these.

5. Bahnah (KY) – Her only start was a blow out score at Churchill, but the race was only four and half furlongs so it will be interesting to she how she stretches out.  Trainer Bret Calhoun is looking for his first Saratoga win, and has brought some nice two-year olds with him to try to get it done.

6. True Blue Nation (KY) – This could be a very live long shot.  Her debut race at Belmont was a romp, and if she can match that performance she’ll have a big chance.

Saturday 9-1-12: Late Pick 4 Analysis for Saratoga

Saratoga Ticket

Race 9: 2,4,6,7,8

Race 10: 3,4,5