By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper – Friday, November 27, 2020
Race 1
1 LADYBOSS – Did not have a good start in her Lasix debut up at the Ridge last time. Draws a pretty tough field here for big track try. I’d need to see a good one here first, before I could endorse.
2 EASY THREE – Trainer scored biggest career win a couple Sunday’s ago with Leonidas in the Potomac Pace!! This mare’s been racing well at the Ridge, but I have to think this is a serious jump up in class. Will have to prove it here.
3 ROSE RUN VANTAGE – Looks like a new acquisition for the Cullipher Crew. They do very well in that stat category. This filly definitely has some talent! That’s a heck of a try from second tier at Mohawk. Let’s see if she’s a fit for Big M.
4 I’M VERY SPECIAL – Gets in via the Trackmaster rating, so that complicates matters. She’s bounced up and down in class around the Metro area, but looks pretty consistent. Have to respect that. Plus, an 11-time winner lifetime.
5 SHOULDABEENATD – One of several 3YO’s in here. She’s tried a few stakes, and had some success. Definitely fits the group, and I like her versatility. I do wonder what the price will be? This is simply an impossible race. Good luck.
6 ROSE RUN VICTORIA – Can’t fault any of her recent form, and that was an excellent first try here, off a layoff. She should improve, but I will admit this looks like a rough spot. She will need very best, and a softer journey.
7 ALEXA SKYE – Ended up in a really tough field last time and her kick just wasn’t the same. I get it. This spot is no easier and I don’t anticipate her blasting like she did on 11/6. Might even get away last in here. That probably won’t work.
8 STONEBRIDGE SOUL – Hard to believe she hasn’t won a race this year, but she’s battled the top stakes mares each time. Just wasn’t able to get lucky. This is LONG overdue class relief, but she will still have to earn it from tough post.
9 TANGO DANCER N – Dexter chose this gal over #2, but I expected that. I’ve always liked her, because she usually tries hard. I do wonder about the price and betting value tonight? We’re not getting 14-1 like week. Tough call.
DRIVER CHOICES: Dexter Dunn
Top Contenders 8-6-5-3
Race 2
1 PREACHER MAN – Couple 2YO’s trying older here and that just doesn’t work too often. Had to “need” that first try here and should improve, but will it be enough? I have my doubts. Demand fair price if you think he’s ready.
2 RARE MUSCLE – Gets another new driver tonight, with Andy steering his own. Has a couple lines that make him competitive in here and there will always be fans who bet on Dex. I won’t bite until I see a good one here.
3 KOMBUCHA – Nice season so far! I see only two wins, but filly goes out and earns every time! She’s made the transition to NY/NJ well. Has versatile speed. Would be very hard to leave off the ticket, with this post edge.
4 FOCUS POCUS – Just had NO shot last time. But, I liked what I saw at the end. With the switch to A Mac, I expect this guy to take some action. Will have to stick close to the filly, and try to get the jump on #10. Must earn it.
5 BATTLE BORN AS – I think we’ll keep this guy on the longshot list for now. Will have to show up with more here.
6 SLOANIE – Homebred is lightly-raced. Had trouble getting around Freehold, but that’s understandable. Did well that one time from the rail at Philly. I’m anxious to see if he’s a fit for the big track. John C put Corey down. Stalks, rallies?
7 DEVIOUS HANOVER – Seemed to do better in rally mode. Used up in the pace battle last time. So, let’s expect a return to the off-the-pace tactics. Will be totally at mercy of both pace and trip. A longshot again.
8 AP HALL OF TRIX – Very inconsistent so far. You never know what you’re going to get. I’m not in love with the post, or potential pace scenario. Have to consider him a longshot.
9 HOSTILE – Also a big price, for Big M debut. Not much early speed here, so a likely “go-around” from the back.
10 GET LEGS – Nice-looking colt has made it all the way back, and that was some powerhouse finish two weeks ago! He still looked green too! Plenty of talent here, but obviously a huge test to overcome the horrible post. No price either! Trainer: Qualified down at Gaitway and then hit a few roadblocks. Rehabbed at Lindy Farms and they did great job with him! He’s come back strong and we have high hopes for him. So far, so good!
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 4-10-3-1
