By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — Friday, March 5, 2021 — Race 1
1 BEBOP ON THE BLOCK – Looked awfully good in that win last week, but yes, it was a mail-order, perfect trip! But, he finally showed a strong finish. Can easily build on that from this ideal post facing a very similar bunch. The one to beat.
2 THUNDER DOME – He’s long overdue to have something go right. Maybe tonight? If he can just follow #1 around the track? Had zero chance last week in that paceless race. This spot looks a lot better.
3 VICTORYDAZE WILWIN – Still nothing to hang your hat on in this corner. I’ll just have to take a pass again.
4 IMA TRAGEDY N – Seems to have rounded into better form out at Pocono, so I’m a little surprised to see him show up here. Don’t expect the 45-1 he went off at in Wilkes-Barre. Is he worth using at much lower odds? With Yannick?
5 BIG SWEEP OSBORNE – Mr. Warren had to “raise” the Trackmaster rating by a point to get three horses in here (1,5,7.) This guy just hasn’t been kicking in strong enough to win one of these. Would need a few things to go his way.
6 ROYAL COURTIER – Up the Pike from Freehold and into a seemingly tougher spot. I want to watch one first.
7 HE’S GRATIS N – He’s the wild card in here! That was a very good try last time down at The Hold. His one try here was okay, but he probably needed it to acclimate to a big track. Barn listed Dexter, so that’s sign of positive intent. Use! Trainer: Tries the Big M again after having a solid effort here at Freehold. Gets Todd tonight. Hoping to sit up close.
8 I’M SID THE KID – Still on the comeback trail from that mishap down at Freehold. Sometimes it just takes a while. I’m not in love with this post, but know he can flash speed at times. I will probably gamble, pass, and wait for better spot, even as Dexter’s choice over #7.
9 STIRLING ENSIGN – Still very much a “work in progress” for Team Capone. Let’s see if we get any improvement.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Andy Miller 1 over 9
Dexter Dunn 8 over 7
Top Contenders 4-1-7-2
Race 2
1 SWEET DOODLE – Those qualifiers look pretty good, but I do wish I’d seen them here in person. Not every horse can debut on the big track and come up with a top effort. Catches the right bunch, though. Team Miller will be ready!
2 SHEZAFREAKLIKEME – I was very impressed with her debut. That really was a nice try, and it came on the slightly off track. Can only improve with that experience and this is a field that she should probably beat. Low price, though. Trainer: Pulled up great from her first start. Just wasn’t quite ready for all that action on a snowy night.
3 ALLL COOL HANOVER – Spell-correct kept trying to change her first name. Oh well! Transitions to new barn here, with good Dover experience. Barn has clicked with a few good ones lately too! Keep that in mind. Pretty consistent of late.
4 PREMIER CABERNET – Another hopeful barn-change bonanza? But, it sure looks like this mare just hates to win. She’s had many, many chances, and no wins in a long time. So, I’ll take that and consider using her underneath only.
5 UPTOWN CALLIE – Enters with a 1-20 slate so far. So, that’s not very impressive. She’s had a couple of runs here to get used to the track, but hasn’t made an impact yet. Will have to turn up the jets substantially to get any closer.
6 CLASSICA – Took a shot with that move last week and got rebuffed. Back to the non-winners of two level and that’s a good move for her. She fits this group perfectly and could be very dangerous here. Don’t be afraid to use.
7 FRILLS N LACE – Like #5, she’s got to step up her game a little. And outside posts don’t ever help that. I’ll pass.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Corey Callahan 5 over 4
Scott Zeron 7 over 6
Top Contenders 2-3-6-1
