By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis — Friday, April 16, 2021 —
Race 1
1 GOLD MEDAL SWAN – Yes, that was a real “clunker” the Swan tossed in last time! So, I really don’t know what to tell you tonight, folks. Dave Miller did stick with him tonight, from another good, inside post. Time to bounce back?
2 STENHOUSE HANOVER – After making a nasty break last week, he came all the way back to pick up a check. Still, something not totally right with him lately. In need of a big time wakeup call.
3 MARVELOUSTRIX – This is the kind of spot where she might have a big chance. With any kind of contested pace up front, she can pick up the pieces. The inner post should keep her close enough. At right price, I will toss onto ticket.
4 POSSESS THE STONE – Flashed some speed in the Big M debut, but then couldn’t keep pace late. Did he need that start? Will he improve off that? Definitely needs to find some more stamina to be competitive here. Not sure.
5 MASSTER BLUE – Takes a week off from the club races down at Freehold. Tony V was putting some real nice trips on him too! This is pretty soft spot to return to mile track, IF he can go faster. That’s a big if!
6 BLAZING TRAIL – One of the many invaders from north of the border we expect to see here over the coming weeks. Moves into the Blackler barn. Just take out that last mistake and this is a nice fit too! If ready, will be big threat. Trainer: First start for the barn. Hopples back on. Has ability, if he behaves.
7 ALEXANDER HANOVER – Outraced his odds last few. I know he doesn’t win all that often, but he finds way to sneak onto the ticket. Corey will try to get him a trip from this slot. It won’t be easy, but he’s on a roll.
8 MUSCLE STAR – Down from the Spa for a big track try and he’s been bouncing up and down the class ladder up there. Not sure if he’ll be a fit here yet. Missed a couple of weeks. New barn. I need to see a good one first.
9 SHADY MCCOY – Shady was a little bit better again last time, so that’s good. But, tonight’s problem will be post nine.
10 ALL AMERICAN N – Rolled right into a break again last week, and that’s never a good thing! Gets slammed with post 10 and tries another new driver, with DM sticking on #1. I would have a hard time playing him. Unreliable.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Dave Miller 1 over 5,10
Scott Zeron 6 over 2
Top Contenders 1-3-6-4
Race 2
1 BIG CHARLIE MORAN – Broke in his debut down at Rosecroft, so he now finds a new home up here. Looks like a longshot to me for now. Need to see a good one first.
2 SWAN HILL – Team Melander seems to have a strangle-hold on this one. A colt and a filly by Muscle Hill. This guy finally gets to make his pari-mutuel debut. Did tire a bit in that qualifier, but I suspect he’ll be stronger tonight.
3 PERFECT RECORD – Didn’t get to go up at the Spa, so we find him here now in NJ. The Stable.ca in action, so you know many fans/owners will be watching. Mark Mac gets the assignment off a decent-looking qualifier. Your call?
4 PREACHER MAN – Really don’t know what to do with this one off the layoff. Several of these were a touch flat in the qualifier, but any of them could step up and improve. Barn has had plenty of success with limited starters here.
5 IMHATRA AM S – First foal of a millionaire dam. They’ve taken their time with her too! Did get that one start in last year, but it wasn’t very good. She trotted a lot faster in that qualifier than most of these. Let’s see if she’s ready.
6 CIRCUIT PARTY – I guess he just tailed off at the end of his freshman campaign? Had been rallying willingly. I didn’t think he was all that ready in the qualifier, so we have to pass and watch one.
7 ONE TRIX PONY – Here’s the other filly in here, and first Big M starter for trainer Brandy Wine, I believe. Also had some experience last year and enters off a solid Vernon qualifier. Bringing her here is a sign of confidence. Let’s use.
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 5-7-2-4
