By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper
Race 1
1 MARVALOUS ONE – Makes his first start of the year tonight, so I do think he’ll need a race or two. That won’t help us, with our meet ending next Saturday, but you might want to take notes to see where he ends up. Has talent.
2 DANDY IDEA – I know he’s got six wins this year, but I don’t think any of them have come here. Tough to like a lot, but at least he’s picked up a couple of checks to earn his keep. Good post. Will sit in and save ground tonight.
3 FINAL JUSTICE – Just 2-27 on the season, so that’s an issue. BUT, somebody has to win this race and it could be anybody. I see who’s driving and he is capable of miracles at times. Maybe he can get this one home again.
4 LOVE YOURSELF – I’m still not really sure why he was so heavily bet last few, but he did not deliver the goods. So, let’s make him the favorite again! And, if you choose to try again, I will wish you luck. Will need an easier journey.
5 MELANIE’S NICK – Since he’s just 1-27 lifetime, and Dexter opted off, I think we can take a pass on him for now.
6 TOATSMYGOATS – Unplayable in current sluggish form. Looking very much like a big longshot again.
7 SOME POWER – Actually had a decent start in first go here. Then followed up with a less-than-stellar effort. It would be hard for me to make a strong case for success, but you never know. It’s a crapshoot of a race.
8 MCKEE CREEK – Had a slightly better second go around here, passing a few at the end. He’s won on big tracks before, so maybe that gives him an edge? Maybe. It’s a tough post, though.
9 BARGAIN SHOPPER – Not really sure what to do with him tonight. Took a shot and left the gate last time and you see how that worked out. Draws much tougher post now. What’s the plan? Joe B will just have to find a way to get lucky.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Dexter Dunn 3 over 1,5
Top Contenders 3-4-8-9
Race 2
1 WOODROW F CALL – I guess we could call that last one a better effort? Yes, it was up at the Spa, but he hasn’t tried the big track yet. Let’s see if he can keep up with these.
2 CABOT BEACH – Scotty Z had this guy out in the flow in that Kindergarten division and colt just didn’t have the punch. We all wish Scotty a quick recovery after that accident at Pocono on Tuesday. Need to see more from this horse.
3 CAPTAIN’S CHOICE – One of four in this “Alagna Open.” A few of them can win, including this guy. He certainly went fast enough last time, so maybe this is a field of his friends, and softer spot? I think so. Post edge too! YG still on.
4 CAPTAIN BATBOY – It’s been a real mixed bag for this one so far. Never really got rolling in his Kindergarten division. So, this is technically easier, but he will still have to go faster. I’m not quite sure about that yet.
5 CAN’T SWAY ME – Noel D hasn’t raced this one here yet, so that always makes me wonder. The one win at Philly was fine. The trip last time was much tougher. Seems like he has some ability. Another that must go a lot faster.
6 GOLDIN GREATNESS – Team Ryder here on a bit of a slow starter. Doesn’t appear to pack much speed, so he’s totally at mercy of pace and trip. Likely to get away last, and I never like that.
7 CAVIART CALLUM – Was very good in the first baby race. Not sure he liked racing on the lead in the follow-up. They put him in the Kindergarten and he was good again! Just has to overcome the post vs. these. That is never easy.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Andy McCarthy 7 over 4
Top Contenders 7-3-5-4
