Still hard to believe that the Hopeful is a Grade 2. In any event, we like the way Mr. Pletcher has managed Shanghai Bobby (7-2) and what we like more is that the Starlight colt has experience; two races in which he has yet to taste defeat.

He broke his maiden in April then ran in a listed stakes at Belmont, the Track Barron, and nearly put the lights out with his speed. He's been given more than enough recuperative time and will meet some tough rivals, namely G2 Sanford winner Bern Identity and impressive maiden breaker Fortify (4-1), from the white hot Goldolpin/McLaughlin team.

We'll need 5-2 on 'Bobby' to seal this deal the right way; key boxing with his two rivals here.

Running Totals: (1158) 357-224-173 Total Dollar Return: $2,450.10 [win selections only] {Sunday results not included}