By Dave Brower, Meadowlands Handicapper — Early Double Analysis —
Race 1
1 DOCTOR BUTCH – You just never know when he’s ready to wake back up. That’s a guessing game, and I’m no good at it. So, if you think tonight’s the night, then demand a fair price for sure. The pole should keep him close enough.
2 NOME HANOVER – Yes, he finally found a field of his friends over at Pocono. Doesn’t mean he can do the same thing here. But, it is a pretty wide open race to start the card. I guess anything can happen.
3 ATTA BOY DAN – What a tough old bird!! Still cranking out the wins at age 13. He’s got 83 of them, you know. That alone deserves an award. This is a not a bad spot for him back on big track. Let’s see if he’s up to the task.
4 HENRICO – I’m really on the fence with this guy. First, I just don’t think he’s a true big track horse. So, that’s an issue when it comes to stamina. But, he has been facing a little better lately. That does make a difference. Speed coming.
5 CINNAMACK – If you want to take a flyer on “P” driver James O’Donnell, this is certainly the spot. Gelding has faced far superior foes lately. It’s a nice midpack post. But, horse is just 1-25 this season. That makes it a very tough call.
6 TRASHYTONGUETALKER – Somebody in here has to be the longshot, so Trashy is it. Would need giant mile to win.
7 SCOTT ONTHE ROCKS – Seems to be sharp right now, I’ll give you that. But, the switch to an outside post, and a clear lack of early zip might hurt. Plus, he’s got to prove himself on a big track too! It won’t be easy.
8 SPORTS HERO – Final piece of this impossible puzzle. Gets the eight-hole for the second straight start. Ended up with a tough trip last time and seems destined for the same here. It’s up to Vinny to fix that and somehow get a trip.
DRIVER CHOICES:
Vinny Ginsburg 8 over 7
Top Contenders 5-3-8-2
Race 2
1 TRUE BLUE HANOVER – One of two freshman trying to tackle the older foes here. That will happen from time to time the rest of the year. This lass has only four starts so far, but she seems to have some talent. Nice confidence builder too
2 BEANTOWN BABE – We haven’t seen too many offspring by this sire here. Okay. The Babe has some ability too, and I think she’s going to like the big track. Marcus likely to be conservative early, but watch out late. Big kick coming?
3 MISTATUDE – Having some issues once she rose in class. This is no easy spot, so I will let her beat me, if she can.
4 FLIP THE SCRIPT – Not sure who will end up being the favorite, this one of #6. Could go either way. Love that race at Batavia. That’s a big mile from a tough spot. So, she’s getting better, Confidence builder usually work wonders.
5 REENACTMENT – Have to consider her a longshot tonight, especially from outer post in short field. Tough spot.
6 HIT ME UP – The key to the race! I do wonder what happened after that amazing try in the sires stakes final. Imagine owning her, with those three straight lost one-inch photos! Is she ready for this or not? Qualifiers are questionable. Lasix on!
DRIVER CHOICES: None
Top Contenders 4-2-6-1
